Does DeVonta Smith think he’s the greatest wide receiver in college football history?

In the ever-evolving world of college football, certain players stand out not just for their exceptional talent but for their ability to rewrite records, redefine expectations, and leave lasting legacies. One such player is DeVonta Smith, whose name has become synonymous with excellence in college football. Smith, a wide receiver for the University of Alabama, has experienced a meteoric rise through the ranks of college football, culminating in a historic 2020 season that saw him win the prestigious Heisman Trophy.

Given his remarkable achievements—catching over 1,800 yards and 23 touchdowns in a single season, leading Alabama to a national championship, and winning the Heisman as the first wide receiver to do so since 1991—it’s no wonder that DeVonta Smith’s name is frequently mentioned in discussions of the greatest wide receivers in college football history. But does DeVonta Smith himself believe he is the greatest to ever play the position in college football? Is his confidence grounded in his extraordinary stats, or is he more modest in his self-assessment?

In this article, we will explore whether DeVonta Smith thinks he’s the greatest wide receiver in college football history, how his career compares to the legends of the game, and what makes his journey and achievements stand out. Additionally, we will look at his own words, his approach to success, and the context surrounding his rise to stardom. This exploration will help us understand whether Smith views himself as the greatest and what his perspective reveals about his character, humility, and legacy.

The Rise of DeVonta Smith

Before diving into Smith’s thoughts on being the greatest wide receiver, it’s essential to appreciate the journey that has brought him to the conversation. DeVonta Smith’s rise to stardom was not overnight. In fact, when he first arrived at Alabama, he was one of many highly touted recruits. Smith’s high school days at Amite High School in Louisiana saw him develop into a promising prospect, but his recruitment was far from a foregone conclusion. Smith was initially overlooked by many of the major programs, in part due to his relatively slight frame—standing at 6’0″ and weighing around 170 pounds at the time of his recruitment. Despite his speed and skill, many coaches doubted whether he could handle the physicality of Power Five football.

However, Nick Saban and his staff at Alabama saw the potential in Smith, and they were proven right. DeVonta Smith’s development as a player was nothing short of extraordinary. Over the course of his college career, he gained strength, honed his route-running ability, and became an elite pass-catcher. By his junior year, Smith had firmly established himself as one of the most dangerous weapons in college football.

Then came the 2020 season—a year in which Smith delivered arguably the most dominant individual performance for a wide receiver in college football history. He finished the season with 117 receptions, 1,856 yards, and 23 touchdowns. He became the first wide receiver to win the Heisman Trophy since Desmond Howard in 1991, further cementing his place in college football history.

Beyond the statistics, Smith’s ability to perform in high-pressure situations further contributed to his legendary status. In the 2021 College Football Playoff National Championship game against Ohio State, Smith put up an astounding 12 receptions for 215 yards and three touchdowns, helping Alabama secure its 18th national championship. This performance was a fitting capstone to an unforgettable season, and it solidified Smith’s legacy as one of the most accomplished wide receivers in the history of college football.

The Question of “Greatest of All Time”

With such a spectacular season, it’s only natural that the conversation surrounding DeVonta Smith’s place in college football history would intensify. As is often the case with athletes of his caliber, the question arises: where does Smith rank among the greatest wide receivers of all time?

DeVonta Smith’s case is particularly interesting because, unlike many wide receivers who rely on physical attributes such as size or speed, Smith’s success has been based on his elite football IQ, incredible route-running ability, hands, and uncanny ability to make plays in critical moments. His 2020 season is widely regarded as one of the greatest individual seasons in college football history by any player, and it certainly rivals the performances of legendary receivers such as Jerry Rice, Randy Moss, Larry Fitzgerald, and others.

Comparisons to Rice, the NFL’s all-time leading receiver, are inevitable given their shared dominance at the wide receiver position, even though Rice played in a different era. Similarly, comparisons to college football greats like Moss and Fitzgerald, who were known for their explosiveness and ability to take over games, also make sense given Smith’s own prowess. But does Smith himself consider himself the greatest of all time?

DeVonta Smith’s Humble Approach to Greatness

When asked directly about being the greatest wide receiver in college football history, Smith’s response has been grounded in humility. Rather than overtly declaring himself the best to ever play the position, Smith has shown a deep appreciation for those who came before him and laid the groundwork for success. In various interviews, Smith has consistently downplayed the notion of self-glorification, emphasizing that he simply wants to be remembered as a player who did his job to the best of his ability.

“I don’t think about being the greatest,” Smith said in an interview with reporters. “I just go out and do my best, try to make plays for my team, and help win games. There are a lot of great receivers in college football history, and I just hope to be remembered as someone who made an impact.”

Smith’s focus on the team’s success rather than personal accolades is a testament to his character. While others might bask in the glory of their individual accomplishments, Smith remains focused on the collective effort that led to Alabama’s success. He consistently credits his coaches, teammates, and the overall program for his ability to achieve greatness, demonstrating that his approach to football is grounded in a sense of humility and gratitude.

This mindset is consistent with what we see in some of the greatest athletes in history, who recognize that the team’s success is paramount to their individual legacy. Instead of aggressively claiming his spot at the top of the wide receiver rankings, Smith instead lets his performance speak for itself.

Smith’s Impact on the College Game

Whether or not DeVonta Smith considers himself the greatest wide receiver in college football history is secondary to the undeniable impact he has had on the game. His 2020 season was one of the most remarkable in recent memory, and it has set a new benchmark for future wide receivers. His ability to dominate despite a physical frame that many perceived as a disadvantage speaks to the evolution of the position in college football.

The rise of smaller, faster receivers in the modern game has reshaped how the position is viewed. Smith’s success showcases the importance of route precision, the ability to make contested catches, and the mental acuity to read defenses—attributes that are just as important as speed and size. For future wide receivers, Smith’s career provides a roadmap for success that doesn’t rely solely on physicality but rather on skill, intelligence, and adaptability.

Moreover, Smith’s influence extends beyond the football field. His journey is one of perseverance, overcoming doubters and critics, and demonstrating that even when others don’t see the potential, hard work and determination can lead to greatness. His success story has inspired countless young athletes, especially those who may not possess the prototypical size or build for their positions but who possess the talent and drive to excel nonetheless.

Legacy and the Future

DeVonta Smith’s legacy in college football is already firmly established. He is part of a select group of players who have left an indelible mark on the sport, and his name will likely be mentioned in discussions of the greatest wide receivers for years to come. Whether or not he’s the “greatest” is subjective, and the title of greatest of all time is often elusive, with numerous players staking a claim to the top spot.

What is clear, however, is that Smith’s legacy is defined not just by his numbers but by his consistency, his ability to make plays when it mattered most, and his contribution to Alabama’s championship dynasty. His humility and work ethic speak to his broader legacy, one that transcends personal accolades and instead focuses on the broader impact he had on the game.

While DeVonta Smith may not claim to be the greatest wide receiver in college football history, his 2020 season is certainly among the most impressive in the sport’s history. His achievements, including winning the Heisman Trophy and leading Alabama to another national championship, have firmly cemented his place in college football lore. Whether or not he’s the greatest, he has certainly earned a spot among the best to ever do it.

In the end, greatness is often defined not by how loudly one claims it, but by how consistently one delivers it. DeVonta Smith’s career will continue to be remembered not just for what he did on the field, but for the example he set off of it—showing that greatness comes from hard work, humility, and a commitment to the team. His place in the annals of college football history is secure, and that, in itself, is a testament to his remarkable career.