How DeVonta Smith Once Impressed Alabama AD Morning After Winning Heisman Trophy
DeVonta Smith’s 2020 college football season remains one of the most remarkable individual performances in Alabama history. The wide receiver from Amite, Louisiana, made a name for himself with his unparalleled skills on the field, culminating in his Heisman Trophy win—a first for an Alabama wide receiver. His achievement was a milestone not just for Smith but for the program itself, signaling a new era of offensive dominance. Yet, beyond the headlines, the day after Smith won the prestigious award revealed something special about his character, work ethic, and the lasting impression he left on those who watched him grow within the Alabama program.
In a season where Alabama football appeared unstoppable, Smith’s Heisman win stood out as one of the most emotional and iconic moments. His performance on the field—racking up an astounding 1,856 receiving yards and 23 touchdowns—left fans and analysts alike in awe. His ability to consistently make plays in high-pressure situations set him apart from the competition. While other standout players were on the ballot, Smith’s consistency, coupled with his role as a leader on a championship-caliber team, made him the undeniable choice for the award.
However, Smith’s character and commitment were just as impressive as his performance on the field. The morning after receiving the Heisman Trophy, Smith’s encounter with Alabama Athletic Director (AD) Greg Byrne highlighted the remarkable humility and professionalism that made him such a beloved figure within the Alabama football program. This interaction was not just about congratulatory words; it spoke to the type of person DeVonta Smith was—someone who, despite his immense success, remained grounded and focused on the team’s greater goals.
A Heisman-Worthy Season: The Build-Up to the Award
DeVonta Smith’s rise to Heisman contention was anything but a fluke. His college football journey began in 2017, when he joined Alabama as a promising wide receiver in a stacked room. His breakout moment came in the 2018 National Championship Game, when he caught the game-winning touchdown from Tua Tagovailoa in overtime, a play that introduced him to the world. However, it was not until his senior year that Smith truly became a dominant force in college football.
Smith’s 2020 season began with a statement in Alabama’s opening games. He routinely torched defenses, displaying not only impressive speed and route-running ability but a knack for making difficult catches in critical moments. His chemistry with quarterback Mac Jones flourished as the season progressed. By the time Alabama had completed an undefeated regular season, Smith had established himself as the top wide receiver in the country. He put up staggering numbers in wins over top-tier SEC teams like Georgia, LSU, and Florida, and his performances in these games solidified his candidacy for the Heisman.
His Heisman win was historic. Not only was Smith the first wide receiver to win the award since 1991, but he also triumphed over formidable candidates such as quarterbacks Trevor Lawrence and Mac Jones, and running back Najee Harris, all of whom were vital contributors to Alabama’s national title aspirations. His 2020 campaign was so dominant that it left little doubt about his place in college football history. Smith’s Heisman win served as a recognition of his work ethic, talent, and leadership—not just his stats.
The Morning After: DeVonta Smith’s Humility Shines Through
The morning after winning the Heisman Trophy, Smith was understandably basking in the glory of his accomplishment. It was an unforgettable moment, marking the culmination of a childhood dream and years of hard work. But it was what happened next—an interaction with Alabama’s athletic director Greg Byrne—that truly highlighted what made Smith stand out not just as a player but as a person.
Greg Byrne, who had seen countless student-athletes pass through Alabama’s legendary program, was a first-hand witness to the transformational journey of DeVonta Smith. As a coach, Byrne had worked closely with Smith’s head coach, Nick Saban, and had seen the tireless work that went into building Alabama into a perennial championship contender. But the morning after Smith’s Heisman victory, the two shared a moment of genuine connection. Smith’s demeanor, his calm and focused mindset, and the respect he showed toward the program were all on display.
Rather than showing up to the meeting with a celebratory attitude or basking in his own glory, Smith showed up with the same professionalism and humility that had defined his entire college career. When Byrne asked him about the Heisman, Smith’s response was focused on his teammates, his coaches, and his program. “It’s not just me,” Smith said, humbly crediting his teammates, including Jones, Harris, and the offensive line, for their roles in his success. He recognized that his individual achievement was a direct result of the collective effort put forth by everyone involved with Alabama football.
Smith’s refusal to take full credit for his individual award made an immediate impact on those who were present. In a world where individual accolades often take precedence, Smith’s team-first mentality was a refreshing reminder of the core values that Alabama football seeks to instill in its players. In a sport that often places the spotlight on individual success, Smith’s ability to redirect the attention to his teammates was an exceptional display of leadership.
Byrne, in particular, was impressed with how Smith carried himself. “He’s one of the most humble and gracious athletes I’ve ever had the privilege of being around,” Byrne reflected after the meeting. “Despite all the attention and accolades, DeVonta stayed true to who he is. He was always focused on the team, and that’s a testament to his character.”
DeVonta Smith’s Role in Alabama’s Culture
Smith’s demeanor and attitude were emblematic of the culture Nick Saban had fostered at Alabama over the years. Known for his disciplined approach to coaching, Saban has emphasized teamwork, accountability, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Smith perfectly embodied these values, never allowing individual success to overshadow the collective goals of the team. His Heisman win was not just about his raw talent—it was also about how he carried himself off the field and the attitude he brought to every practice, game, and team meeting.
In the broader context of Alabama football, Smith’s influence extended well beyond his own performance. He set an example for future players, particularly young wide receivers, about what it takes to succeed at the highest level. His ability to put in the work, stay grounded, and remain focused on the team helped set the tone for others to follow. As a leader, Smith was not one to boast about his accomplishments. Instead, he used his platform to inspire others and push them to be better—whether it was his teammates or the future stars who looked up to him.
His leadership in the wide receiver room also helped cultivate a competitive, yet supportive environment. Players like John Metchie III, who would go on to have his own successful career at Alabama, learned from Smith’s leadership and example. The ripple effect of Smith’s approach was felt throughout the program, reinforcing the importance of teamwork and humility in a program known for producing elite talent.
The National Impact of DeVonta Smith’s Heisman Victory
Smith’s Heisman Trophy win did more than just solidify his place in college football history. It also had a broader impact on the perception of the wide receiver position in college football. For years, the Heisman Trophy had been dominated by quarterbacks and running backs, with only a few select wide receivers earning recognition. Smith’s victory, however, proved that a wide receiver could not only compete but could excel in a game traditionally focused on the quarterback.
His success sent a clear message to future generations of athletes: that the wide receiver position is just as valuable and capable of securing the most prestigious individual award in college football. It also had significant implications for recruiting. Alabama, already known for its dominance on the recruiting trail, found itself with a renewed appeal to top-tier wide receivers who saw that playing in Tuscaloosa could lead to national recognition and a shot at the Heisman.
Additionally, Smith’s victory became a symbol of Alabama’s continued excellence under Nick Saban. In a time when many college football programs were focused on building dynamic offenses, Saban’s ability to develop a wide receiver like Smith into a Heisman winner only further solidified the reputation of Alabama as a school capable of producing stars in every position, not just on the defensive side of the ball.