NFL Network analyst Michael Robinson has apologized to Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts after facing widespread criticism for comments questioning the seriousness of his injury and raising doubts about his commitment to the team.
Robinson sparked controversy during an appearance on NFL GameDay Kickoff last Thursday while discussing Hurts' initial diagnosis of a superficial blood clot in his calf.
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“I don’t know nothing, guys, but it looked like they were trying to pin the outcome of this season on Jalen Hurts, just so that they can have an excuse later on to move on from Jalen Hurts,” said Robinson.
“And again, I’m not saying I know nothing, guys, but … if I’m Jalen Hurts or anybody in Jalen Hurts’ camp, I’m saying, ‘Well, if everybody’s hurt, I’m hurt, too.’
“Guys, I’ve been cleated before. And I’m not saying a superficial blood clot isn’t serious. I’m not saying that, but I would advise all of our viewers to Google ‘superficial blood clot’ as opposed to a real blood clot. And again, I’m not a medical guy.”
His remarks quickly attracted backlash on social media, with several fans demanding that NFL Network fire him.
Others argued that Robinson owed Hurts a public apology for making assumptions about his health without having the medical expertise to assess his condition.
On Thursday, Robinson addressed the controversy, admitting his comments were unfounded and that he shouldn't have speculated about a player's medical situation or dedication to his team.
"I want to sincerely apologize to Jalen Hurts, his family, the Philadelphia Eagles organization and fan base for my comments last Thursday," wrote Robinson.
“They were unfounded and I never should’ve speculated on a health issue of a player nor his commitment to his team.”
Jalen Hurts' diagnosis raises serious concerns
The controversy intensified after further medical examinations revealed that Hurts had deep vein thrombosis and bilateral pulmonary emboli, meaning blood clots had travelled to both lungs.
According to a statement released by the Eagles and Hurts' agent, Nicole Lynn, the quarterback is clinically stable and has no significant functional limitations.
However, he's receiving treatment with blood-thinning medication, which prevents him from participating in football activities involving contact.
Doctors reportedly expect Hurts to miss the remainder of the season, although his prognosis is positive and a full recovery is anticipated.
The statement added that he could return to contact football once he no longer needs the medication, with no long-term effects expected.
Hurts initially suffered a calf injury after being struck by a cleat during Philadelphia's October 4 game against the Los Angeles Rams.
An ultrasound conducted in London subsequently identified a superficial blood clot before the Eagles faced the Jacksonville Jaguars on October 11.
Despite the diagnosis, Hurts played against Jacksonville, attempting 40 passes in a narrow 19-17 defeat. Reports later revealed that he had spent much of the night undergoing medical evaluation before travelling to the stadium.
Lynn subsequently clarified that Hurts had managed to sleep before rejoining his teammates, following concerns about his condition and readiness to play.
The circumstances surrounding his participation have prompted questions about the Eagles' medical decision-making. Head coach Nick Sirianni defended the organization, insisting that player welfare remains a priority and expressing full confidence in the medical staff.
Philadelphia has struggled without its starting quarterback. Backup Tanner McKee started against Carolina on Sunday, completing 26 of 45 passes for 215 yards and one touchdown in a 25-14 defeat.