A backup quarterback to a late-season starter.
Jalen Hurts became a sense of relief for the Philadelphia Eagles in the 2020 season to what now looks like the team’s leader for the foreseeable future. Over the last five weeks, the quarterback has been ranked No. 1 in the NFL with a 75.0 QBR.
With two years remaining on his rookie contract, Hurts’ growth has been unmatched.
RUSHING PROMISE STRAIGHT OUT OF THE SOUTH
A true freshman at Alabama, Hurts completed 2,780 yards and 23 touchdowns with nine interceptions. But even more impressive was his footwork. Rushing for 954 yards and 13 touchdowns, Hurts broke the single-season record.
Despite the following year being just as remarkable, Hurts was benched for Tua Tagovalioa who eventually took over the starting role. For his final year, Hurts transferred to the University of Oklahoma, finishing the best season of his collegiate career. Recording 3,851 passing yards, 32 passing touchdowns, and eight interceptions, Hurts added 1,298 rushing yards and 20 rushing touchdowns to his resume.
FLYING NORTH
Finishing second for the Heisman Trophy, the Philadelphia Eagles selected Hurts in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Unbeknownst to fans, Hurts would have the opportunity to redeem himself after his time at Alabama.
In Week 13, he became the Eagles’ relief, starting the season’s final four games. Even with a 1-3 record, fans were eager to see Hurts move forth as the starting quarterback in 2021. But after a series of highs and lows following Week 1, Philadelphia’s problems were far from over.
Now playing to his strengths, Hurts is proving to be a dangerous playmaker. Since Week 8, the 22-year-old has made substantial increases in rushing attempts, rushing yards per game, yards per pass attempt, and completion percentage. As a dual-threat, Hurts has shown mobility, leading all NFL quarterbacks with eight rushing touchdowns. He has become the first Eagles’ quarterback to rush for three touchdowns in a single game.
Hurts is also the only quarterback in the league with 2,250+ total yards and five turnovers or less.
When asked about being the Eagles’ quarterback, Hurts stated, “I’ve been granted the opportunity to lead this football team, and I hold it with high value, with high regards. It’s something I take very seriously, and it’s important to me.”
In 11 games this season, Jalen Hurts has completed 2,306 passing yards, 13 passing touchdowns, 618 rushing yards, and eight rushing touchdowns. He is Philadelphia’s leading rusher.
With six remaining games, it’s very likely Jalen Hurts, and the remainder of the Eagles can make their way to the playoffs. The quarterback will continue his hot streak Sunday, November 28, against the New York Giants.