Concerns Arise Over Philadelphia Eagles’ Handling of Jalen Hurts’ Health

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts is anticipated to miss the rest of the season due to blood clots found in his lungs. This development has sparked criticism from former NFL player and CBS Sports analyst Leger Douzable. He criticized the Eagles for their handling of Hurts’ health situation, voicing worries about the organization’s focus on player safety.

Player Safety Concerns

Douzable questioned the Eagles’ priorities, suggesting that their actions could influence potential players’ decisions to join the team. He emphasized that players, especially those entering free agency, often evaluate how teams treat their homegrown talent. Douzable noted, “‘If you’re treating a guy who’s homegrown, who’s brought you a Super Bowl like this, how are you gonna treat me when I’m just coming into the building?’

Hurts’ Medical History

According to ESPN, Hurts was first diagnosed with a superficial blood clot in his calf before the Eagles’ game in London against the Jacksonville Jaguars earlier in the month. Despite the diagnosis, Hurts played in that game after the Eagles’ medical staff assessed him. Later tests showed that the clot had moved, leading to Hurts being sidelined for the October 18 game against the Panthers. ESPN reported that Hurts was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis and bilateral pulmonary emboli.

Head coach Nick Sirianni defended the Eagles’ medical team, stating that they prioritize player health.

Douzable’s Criticism of Eagles’ Approach

Douzable faulted the Eagles for allowing Hurts to play after the initial diagnosis. He argued that the organization should have prioritized Hurts’ safety over his desire to compete. “Somebody should’ve stepped in and said, ‘Jalen, we love that you’re a competitor, we love that you’re a warrior, but we’re not gonna put you at risk. We’re gonna put you to the side, because it’s more about you and your safety,'” Douzable said.

He qualified his criticism by stating, “If all that we’re seeing right now is true.” His remarks may prompt the Eagles’ management and medical staff to reassess their handling of player health.