EAGLES QB JALEN HIRTS RULED OUT AGAINST THE PANTHERS WITH A 'SUPERFICIAL BLOOD CLOT'

Jalen Hurts is out against the Panthers. Barring any surprises, Tanner McKee will start in his place.

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The Philadelphia Eagles announced on Thursday that Jalen Hurts has a "superficial blood clot" in his calf, and will not play Week 6 against the Carolina Panthers. The Eagles' full statement: 

Or in more easily readable text:

“On Thursday, October 8th, Jalen visited the training room after practice requesting treatment for his calf. He informed the medical staff he had been cleated during the Rams game on October 4th. This was his first treatment session for the calf injury following the game, after having practiced in full both Wednesday and Thursday. On Friday, Jalen received treatment, practiced in full, and was added to the practice report.

“Out of an abundance of caution, an ultrasound was performed on Saturday following the team’s flight to London and walkthrough. The ultrasound revealed a superficial blood clot. Our medical staff and doctors in London reviewed the results and concluded that activity and mobility were important and that Jalen could safely play. Doctors recommended a follow-up ultrasound within 72 hours of the game and the return flight to Philadelphia. 

“Jalen played without limitation in the game Sunday, received treatment on Monday and Tuesday, and practiced in full on Wednesday, as reflected in the practice report. Throughout our time in London and this week, we have remained in communication with the league office regarding the matter.  

"On Wednesday night, a follow-up ultrasound revealed movement in the small blood clot. Jalen will be out for Sunday’s game vs. the Panthers as we determine the appropriate course of treatment. His health and safety are our highest priority.”

Barring any unexpected roster moves, Tanner McKee will start in place of Hurts on Sunday.

The Eagles listed 24 players on their injury report on Wednesday. The offense currently has the following notable injuries (and other situations), by position:

• Quarterback: Jalen Hurts is ruled out for Sunday. Former QB2 Andy Dalton was cut after a bad performance Week 3 against the Bears.

• Running back: Saquon Barkley did not play Week 5 against the Jaguars, and did not practice on Wednesday. Tank Bigsby is on IR. Will Shipley will be out Week 6 vs. Carolina.

• Wide receiver: DeVonta Smith didn't play Week 5 against the Jaguars, and did not practice on Wednesday. Dontayvion Wicks and Hollywood Brown were both limited.

• Tight end: Nothing notable. Some of the depth guys were limited on Wednesday, like E.J. Jenkins, Grant Calcaterra, and Eli Stowers.

• Offensive tackle: Lane Johnson retired.

• Guard: Landon Dickerson is on IR, but had his 21-day practice window opened this week. Tyler Steen was limited with a shoulder injury.

• Center: Cam Jurgens was traded. Drew Kendall didn't play Week 5 with a knee injury, and he did not practice on Wednesday.

It's pretty safe to say that the Eagles' 2026 season is going poorly.

We will update as we learn more about the severity of Hurts' injury.

- JIMMY KEMPSKI

EAGLES RECEIVE CONCERNING NEWS AHEAD OF NFL PLAYOFF MATCHUP AGAINST PACKERS

Eric Hartline-Imagn Images / Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

The Philadelphia Eagles are gearing up for a massive showdown in the first round of the NFL playoffs this Sunday when they face the Green Bay Packers. The two teams previously met in Week 1 in Brazil, with the Eagles emerging victorious after Jordan Love was forced to leave the game late due to injury.

However, the Packers are now dealing with their own injury woes. Wide receiver Christian Watson has been ruled out for the season after what is expected to be a torn ACL. On the other side, the Eagles received concerning news of their own on Monday, just six days before the matchup in Philadelphia.

ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that Eagles star quarterback Jalen Hurts is still in concussion protocol. This news is somewhat eye-opening, as Hurts suffered the concussion nearly three weeks ago during a Week 16 game against the Washington Commanders. Despite the extended period, Hurts has yet to clear the standard concussion protocol, which requires him logging a full practice, which he will have the opportunity to do over the next four or so days.

Eagles QB Jalen Hurts is still in concussion protocol.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 6, 2025

The good news is that it's still early in the week. If Hurts remains in protocol by Thursday or Friday, it could provide a clearer picture of his status for Sunday.

While many believe Hurts will be ready to go, if he can't play, backup quarterback Kenny Pickett would likely start. Pickett has performed admirably in his two stints against Washington and Dallas, although he did leave the Cowboys game with a minor injury. Tanner McKee stepped in after Pickett's exit.

Pickett's injury was not deemed serious, so if he gets the starting nod, McKee would likely become the second-string quarterback. Nonetheless, the hope is that Hurts will be cleared in time to lead the Eagles in what promises to be a major matchup against a very talented Packers team.

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- Cole Sullivan Athlon Sports