The Philadelphia Eagles’ handling of Jalen Hurts’ medical condition has come under scrutiny following his diagnosis of blood clots in his left calf and both lungs.
The NFL Players Association has called for a full investigation into his medical treatment and clearance to play in London, while the NFL maintains that the required medical protocols were followed.
Eagles RB backs teammate as medical investigation calls grow
Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley addressed the discussion surrounding quarterback Jalen Hurts’ medical condition, rejecting claims that the situation had become a conflict between Hurts and the team. In a video shared by ESPN Eagles reporter Tim McManus, Barkley said social media had spread a large amount of information about the situation, much of which he believed was false.
Barkley said: “There’s a lot of information that was put out, some true, some false, a lot false, to be completely honest. But the thing that I made of it, it sucks that the first thing, in my opinion, people try to make it was an Eagles versus Jalen thing.”
Barkley added that: “Sometimes it’s bigger than football, and my prayers just continue to go out to him.” Barkley said the team would support Hurts during his recovery. “Knowing Jalen, this is just a little setback, and he’s going to come back better from it.”
Through his first five games of the 2026 season, Hurts had recorded 933 passing yards, eight passing touchdowns and three interceptions. He had also rushed for 107 yards and one touchdown.
After the Eagles’ October 4 game against the Los Angeles Rams, Hurts experienced an issue with his left calf and sought medical attention on October 8. A precautionary ultrasound on October 10 detected superficial vein thrombosis in his left calf. After reviewing the results, the Eagles’ medical staff and a London physician cleared him to play and recommended follow-up testing within 72 hours and after his return to Philadelphia.
Hurts played against the Jacksonville Jaguars in London on October 11. He completed 21 of 40 passes for 220 yards and a touchdown. After returning to Philadelphia, an October 14 ultrasound showed a change in the clot’s condition. The Eagles subsequently ruled him out of their October 19 game against the Carolina Panthers and placed him on injured reserve on October 17.
On October 19, the Eagles and Hurts’ agent, Nicole Lynn, released a joint statement confirming that his diagnosis was deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary emboli in both lungs. The statement said Hurts was stable, had no significant limitations in daily activities and had a positive outlook.
Hurts is receiving blood-thinning medication. While taking the medication, he cannot participate in contact activities, including football. He can return to contact football after completing the medication and receiving medical clearance. In the meantime, he is expected to remain with the team and work to maintain his physical conditioning.
The NFL Players Association (NFLPA) called for an investigation into Hurts’ medical treatment, including his diagnosis, clearance to play in London and whether medical protocols were followed. Criticism of the Eagles’ handling of the situation has also come from other quarters. The investigation request does not establish medical negligence or wrongdoing.
On October 22, Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni declined to discuss specific details of Hurts’ medical situation. He directed reporters to statements from the NFLPA and Goodell.
The investigation would review the medical decisions and clearance process. The NFL said its review found protocols were followed, while the NFLPA has called for a broader examination. The Eagles said Hurts will remain with the team but cannot return to contact football until treatment is complete and he receives clearance.
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