Jalen Hurts' Return Hinges on Blood Clot Dissipation, Eagles Placing QB on IR

Jalen Hurts has been placed on the injured reserve by the Philadelphia Eagles as the quarterback is dealing with a blood clot, a condition that will sideline him indefinitely until it fully dissipates.

According to reports, the Eagles will only allow Hurts to return to the field this season if the blood clot has completely melted away. This precautionary measure comes after the clot was initially superficial but later began to move, a development that elevated the concern to a potentially serious level.

Jay Glazer, reporting on "FOX NFL Sunday," emphasized the gravity of a moving blood clot, describing it as a situation that "could be a life-or-death situation." Glazer added that multiple scans would be required to confirm the clot's complete resolution before Hurts could be cleared to play. Former NFL team doctor David Chao echoed these concerns, noting that a deep vein clot would necessitate a multi-week absence.

Hurts' placement on injured reserve means he must miss a minimum of four games. The Eagles have already played one game without him, falling to the Carolina Panthers 25-14 on Sunday, with backup Tanner McKee making his first start of the season. McKee threw for 215 yards and one touchdown in the loss.

The Eagles are scheduled to face several divisional opponents during Hurts' absence, including matchups against the Dallas Cowboys, Washington Commanders, and the New York Giants. The team has also been managing other injuries throughout the season, including those affecting running back Saquon Barkley and offensive lineman Lane Johnson's mid-season retirement.