Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni may have inadvertently fueled rumors about quarterback Jalen Hurts‘ health during a press conference on Friday.
While addressing Hurts‘ absence from Wednesday’s practice, Sirianni initially cited an ankle issue before hastily backtracking, leading to widespread speculation about the quarterback’s condition ahead of the team’s key NFC East matchup against the Dallas Cowboys.
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts looks ready to go during practice amid rumors of a possible injury
During the press conference, Sirianni stated, “Yeah, you know, he was on the injury report dealing with the ankle, and we’re just making sure we’re cautious with everything.”
However, reporters quickly pointed out that Hurts was not listed on the injury report. Sirianni deferred to an Eagles PR representative, who clarified the absence was due to rest, prompting Sirianni to amend his statement: “It was rest, yeah, sorry.”
When asked directly whether Hurts was managing an ankle issue, Sirianni dodged the question with a smile and a shake of his head, leaving the matter unresolved.
While the official line from the team maintains that Hurts‘ rest day was routine, sources suggest the quarterback has been dealing with mild ankle discomfort for a few weeks.
This has led to concerns over whether the Eagles are downplaying a more significant issue to avoid drawing attention.
A History of Ankle Problems
Hurts‘ history with ankle injuries has only added to the speculation. In 2023, he underwent surgery to remove hardware implanted following an ankle injury sustained during his college career at Alabama in 2018.
With the Eagles now in the midst of a crucial stretch of games, the team’s apparent caution could be part of a broader strategy to preserve Hurts’ health for the playoffs.
According to ESPN, Hurts was held back during Wednesday’s practice to manage his workload. He avoided activities like planting and dropping back during individual drills but reportedly participated in the team’s walkthrough later that day.
By Thursday, he was listed as a full participant and is expected to start against the Cowboys.
The Eagles enter Sunday’s game on a four-game winning streak, eager to close the gap on the NFC East-leading Washington Commanders.
Meanwhile, the Cowboys will likely be without starting quarterback Dak Prescott, sidelined with a hamstring injury. Backup Cooper Rush is set to lead Dallas, making the matchup a golden opportunity for the Eagles to secure a crucial divisional win.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Hurts‘ condition, the quarterback is determined to focus on the task at hand.
When asked about his rest day, Hurts deflected attention, stating, “I just do what I’m told.” His team will need that focused leadership as they navigate the demanding schedule ahead.
Whether Sirianni‘s comments were a simple misstep or an attempt to deflect scrutiny, the spotlight remains on Hurts and the Eagles as they aim to maintain momentum in their push for the playoffs.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Hurts‘ performance reflects any lingering effects of his alleged ankle issue.
