Jalen Hurts' Season Ends as Blood Clots Reach Lungs, Sparking Outrage Over London Decision

Key points

• Hurts was placed on injured reserve after tests revealed blood clots in both lungs and deep vein thrombosis in his left leg.
• He is expected to be sidelined for at least three months on blood thinners, with a prognosis for full recovery and no long-term effects.
• Hurts played in a 19-17 loss to the Jaguars in London after spending the night in a hospital and sleeping only a few hours.
• The Eagles are 2-4 and have lost four consecutive games, with backup quarterback Tanner McKee stepping in.
• Head coach Nick Sirianni defended the medical team's decisions, stating he relies on their expertise and has full trust in them.

Background

Hurts, 28, has been the Eagles' starting quarterback since late 2020, leading them to two Super Bowl appearances, including a 2025 victory. The team had previously faced scrutiny over Hurts' calf injury, which was initially treated as minor before progressing. Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott had earlier urged NFL players to communicate openly with medical staff following the initial diagnosis.

How outlets are covering it

The New York Post highlighted Hurts' mother's public plea for gratitude, emphasizing the personal impact of the scare. CBS News and CNN focused on the medical timeline, questioning why Hurts was allowed to fly and play in London despite a known clot, with medical experts noting that air travel increases clotting risk. CBS Sports detailed the unanswered questions surrounding the Eagles' medical decisions, while noting that similar cases, such as Victor Wembanyama's, have resulted in full recoveries. The outlets generally agreed on the severity of the condition but differed in emphasis, with some focusing on the family's response and others on the institutional accountability of the Eagles' medical staff.

Why it matters

The incident raises significant questions about NFL medical protocols, particularly regarding international travel and player safety. It also impacts the Eagles' season, as they face a critical Monday Night Football game against the Cowboys, and highlights the risks associated with deep vein thrombosis in athletes.

What to watch

Hurts is expected to remain active around the team and continue conditioning while on blood thinners. He may return to contact activities once off the medication, potentially in the playoffs. The Eagles will monitor his progress over the next three months, with a focus on ensuring a full recovery.