DeVonta Smith Cleared to Play Following Concussion

Eagles wide receiver DeVonta Smith has been cleared from the NFL's concussion protocol after suffering a concussion during a game against the Saints on September 22. The hit, delivered by Saints defensive lineman Khristian Boyd, went unpenalized on the field but resulted in a $4,665 fine for Boyd due to unnecessary roughness. Smith expressed that he does not consider the hit to be dirty; rather, he believes officials should have blown the whistle when his forward progress was stopped. He emphasized, "I can't extend the play if I'm moving backwards," highlighting his frustration with the lack of protection from the officials. Smith recalled the support from teammate A.J. Brown during the incident, though he noted he was unaware of the seriousness of the situation at the time. Prior to his injury, Smith had 21 receptions for 239 yards and a touchdown in three games this season.