Eagles Quarterback Jalen Hurts Ruled Out Due to Blood Clot
A superficial blood clot discovered after Jalen Hurts played through the injury has led the Philadelphia Eagles to sideline their starting quarterback.
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts has been ruled out of Sunday's game against the Carolina Panthers due to a superficial blood clot. The condition was discovered following the team's trip to London, where Hurts played in the Eagles' loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars.
According to a statement from the Eagles, Hurts first sought treatment for his calf on Thursday, October 8th, after being cleated during an October 4th game against the Rams. He had practiced in full on Wednesday and Thursday prior to this initial treatment.
An ultrasound performed on Saturday, October 10th, after the team's flight to London, revealed the superficial blood clot. Eagles medical staff and doctors in London determined that Hurts could safely play, recommending a follow-up ultrasound within 72 hours of the game and the return flight. Hurts played the game on Sunday without any reported limitations.
Following treatment on Monday and Tuesday and a full practice on Wednesday, a follow-up ultrasound on Wednesday night indicated movement in the small blood clot. The team has now decided to sit Hurts for Sunday's game while determining the appropriate treatment plan.
A superficial blood clot forms in a vein near the skin's surface. The Eagles emphasized their ongoing communication with the NFL regarding the injury and their adherence to reporting rules.
With Hurts sidelined, Tanner McKee is listed as the backup quarterback. The 26-year-old Stanford product has completed 54 of 88 passes for 597 yards and five touchdowns in six appearances for the Eagles this season. The team recently waived veteran backup Andy Dalton.
The Eagles currently hold a 2-3 record and are on a three-game losing streak, compounded by other injuries to key players including guard Landon Dickerson, traded center Cam Jurgens, and retired tackle Lane Johnson.