Philadelphia Eagles fans are in a state of hopeful anticipation with quarterback Jalen Hurts still navigating the concussion protocol as the team gears up for a critical wild-card showdown against the Green Bay Packers this Sunday.
Head coach Nick Sirianni addressed the media on Monday, confirming that Hurts remains in protocol after the concussion sustained early in the Eagles’ Week 16 clash with the Washington Commanders. That injury sidelined Hurts for the rest of the game—a matchup that didn’t end in the Eagles’ favor—and kept him out for Weeks 17 and 18 as well. In Hurts’ absence, the Eagles have turned to their other quarterbacks. Kenny Pickett stepped up to the challenge back in Week 16 and for part of Week 17, until he took a hard hit to the ribs. That led to Tanner McKee stepping into the spotlight, making his NFL starting debut against the New York Giants in Week 18.
Sirianni has been keeping things close to the vest with updates on Hurts’ condition since he entered protocol on December 22. The Eagles have remained mum on specifics regarding Hurts’ progress through the various stages of the NFL’s return-to-play criteria. However, Sirianni did note that Hurts was present at Saturday’s walkthrough, though since it’s a non-contact event, it doesn’t offer much insight into his readiness for the coming game.
With both teams having evolved significantly since their Week 1 faceoff in Brazil, losing Hurts for the upcoming game would indeed be a significant hindrance to the Eagles’ ambitions. As game day inches closer, the pressure mounts for Sirianni to provide clarity on Hurts’ status—details that might start to emerge once the Eagles dive into their practice sessions this week.
