Eagles Make Major Decision on Jalen Hurts’ Season Before Facing Panthers

Jalen Hurts' season took an unexpected turn this week after the Philadelphia Eagles discovered a superficial blood clot in his calf. The issue reportedly started when Hurts was cleated during the Eagles' loss to the Rams in Week 4. He reported calf discomfort days later, and an ultrasound revealed the clot before Philly's game against the Jaguars last weekend.

Medical staff initially cleared Hurts to play and he finished the game without limitations. But a follow-up ultrasound after the Eagles got back to Philadelphia revealed the clot had moved, prompting the team to rule him out against the Panthers in Week 6. The Eagles haven't yet disclosed a recovery timeline, leaving Hurts sidelined indefinitely.

With Hurts unavailable, backup Tanner McKee is expected to start against Carolina on Sunday. The Eagles also signed Joe Milton III off the Cowboys practice squad to add depth at the position.

On Saturday, though, NFL insiders Ian Rapoport and Adam Schefter reported that the Eagles are not planning to place Hurts on injured reserve. The team is still gathering information about the blood clot and determining the appropriate course of action.

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The decision to keep Hurts off IR is notable. While it doesn't necessarily mean he'll return soon, it gives the Eagles flexibility while doctors assess the situation further. Some superficial clots can resolve within weeks with conservative care and monitoring. Others may require blood-thinning medication, which typically prevents athletes from playing due to the risk of bleeding.

Philadelphia's upcoming stretch isn't doing them any favors, unfortunately. After Carolina on Sunday, they'll face Dallas in primetime on Monday night, followed by games against the Commanders, Giants, and Steelers. They will have a bye week before the Pittsburgh game on Nov. 22, though, which might leave enough time for Hurts to return to the lineup.

The Eagles have suffered three straight losses, Saquon Barkley is still out with a hamstring injury, All-Pro tackle Lane Johnson abruptly retired, and they're set to be without Hurts indefinitely. The pressure is on for Nick Sirianni to steady this team, and he now has to do it without the team's franchise quarterback, best offensive weapon, and top offensive lineman.

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