Inside the Eagles’ Inner Circle: How A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith Became Brothers in More Than Name

In the brutal, high-pressure world of the NFL, real friendships are rare. But in the heart of the Philadelphia Eagles’ locker room, A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith have found something deeper than mere camaraderie. What began as a promising on-field partnership has quietly evolved into a brotherhood—built on shared faith, family values, and an unshakable respect for one another.

When Brown was traded to the Eagles in 2022, many wondered how two star wide receivers would coexist. Brown, the physical powerhouse from Mississippi, and Smith, the slim and savvy route-runner from Louisiana, had very different paths to the league. But from day one, their connection was undeniable. It wasn’t just their talent that meshed—it was their outlook on life. Both men are grounded in Christianity, and they’ve made prayer a part of their game-day ritual. “We pray not just to win,” Brown said in a 2023 interview, “but to stay humble and remember why we’re here.” That mutual spiritual discipline formed the foundation of their bond.

Off the field, the connection grew stronger. Both men are deeply family-oriented. Brown often speaks lovingly of his children, while Smith treasures his roots and the close-knit bond with his mother and siblings. At Brown’s glamorous engagement party to Kelsey Riley in May 2025—where John Legend performed—Smith wasn’t just invited; he was front and center, celebrating with joy. “DeVonta’s not a teammate. He’s family,” Brown captioned a photo from the event.

Their chemistry is just as real on the turf. In 2022, the pair made history by becoming the first Eagles wide receiver duo to surpass 1,000 yards each in a single season. Their skills complement each other—Brown’s aggressive style and Smith’s surgical precision. But behind those stats is something more powerful: trust. “I know where A.J. will be without even looking,” Smith shared after a key 2024 win. “We’ve built that connection off the field, and it shows up on Sundays.”

But what truly cements their bond is their shared vision. Both want to leave behind more than stats and rings—they want to build a culture. They mentor younger players like Joseph Ngata and speak openly about leadership. “It’s about legacy,” Brown said. “We want to set the tone for what it means to be an Eagle.” That mission has turned two athletes into something more—a spiritual brotherhood.

In a sport often defined by ego and rivalry, Brown and Smith are a reminder that greatness thrives not in isolation, but in unity. Together, they’re not just rewriting Eagles history—they’re redefining what it means to be teammates.