The Philadelphia Eagles closed out the regular season with a 20-13 win over the New York Giants, setting the stage for a highly anticipated NFC Wild Card showdown against the Green Bay Packers at Lincoln Financial Field next Sunday.
Nick Sirianni made the decision to rest several starters against the Giants yesterday. The hope is that the extra rest will ensure that the Eagles are as healthy as possible as they begin their playoff journey.
However, Philadelphia’s playoff hopes are clouded by the uncertainty surrounding star quarterback Jalen Hurts, who remains sidelined in concussion protocol.
Hurts has been absent since suffering a concussion in Week 15 against the Washington Commanders.
He has missed the past two games and two weeks of practice, leaving fans and teammates a little concerned as we inch closer to Sunday.
Sirianni provided an update on Hurts’ condition, speaking to reporters ahead of Sunday’s game against the Giants.
While he couldn’t reveal specific details, Sirianni emphasized that the quarterback is making progress.
“Same as what we talked about,” Sirianni said. “(He) is progressing through the (concussion) protocol. Can’t say much more when guys are in the protocol except for that.”
Pressed further on Hurts’ status, Sirianni reiterated, “Guys, he’s progressing through the protocol. We’ve talked a lot about that. I respect your questions. I’m going to answer them all, but yeah he’s progressing through the protocol.”
Even with Hurts out, the Eagles managed to secure an impressive win over their division rival.
Sirianni noted that the team’s focus throughout the week was on continuous improvement, regardless of who was on the field.
“I want to continue to get better each and every day. That’s been our mission this entire week for guys that are going to be playing in this game and guys that aren’t going to be playing in this game. How do we progress? How do we get better?” Sirianni said.
“We’re going through the week just like we would every other week, and I expect guys to go out there and perform and play to the standard that we have set here.”
Those who played against the Giants did just that – and Sirianni is hoping that the momentum will rollover to the postseason.
As the Eagles prepare to host the Packers, the presence of Hurts could be a critical factor.
The dynamic quarterback’s ability to lead the offense has been a cornerstone of the Eagles’ success this season, and his availability for the Wild Card game remains a key storyline.
Despite the concerns, it would be an absolute shock if we don’t see Hurts on the field come Sunday. However, crazier things have happened.
What are your thoughts on Hurts’ status?
More importantly, where is your confidence level with the Eagles as they enter the playoffs???