Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts has been ruled out for the upcoming game against the Carolina Panthers due to a superficial blood clot in his calf. The decision comes after a series of medical evaluations that revealed the clot, which was discovered following an ultrasound during the team's trip to London for their Week 5 game against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni expressed deep concern for Hurts, stating, 'I'm always concerned for our guys. Jalen and I have a special relationship.' Sirianni emphasized that the health of his players is the utmost priority, highlighting the bond he shares with Hurts beyond just a coach-player dynamic.
Hurts initially played in Week 5 after medical staff deemed it safe, but a follow-up ultrasound revealed movement in the clot, leading to the decision to sit him out. Teammates were informed of Hurts' condition as they prepared for practice, with wide receiver Dontayvion Wicks noting the seriousness of the situation. 'It's hard when you find out your leader has to sit out for something like that,' Wicks said.
Dak Prescott, quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys, also weighed in on the matter, emphasizing the importance of player health and communication with medical staff. 'It's scary when you get things like that. Blood clots, you're talking about someone's life,' Prescott remarked, urging players to be open about their health concerns.
As the Eagles navigate Hurts' absence, Tanner McKee is set to start in his place. Despite the uncertainty surrounding Hurts' return, teammates are rallying around McKee, with wide receiver DeVonta Smith stating, 'It's bigger than football. Something like this that's very serious puts a lot of things into perspective.'