Eagles Coach Defends Handling of Jalen Hurts' Blood Clot Diagnosis
Nick Sirianni stated the team's medical experts made the decision to play Jalen Hurts, prioritizing player health.
Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni addressed questions on Monday regarding the team's handling of quarterback Jalen Hurts' medical condition, specifically their decision to let him play on October 11 despite knowing he had a blood clot and was on limited rest.
Sirianni reiterated that the health and safety of players is the team's top priority and that decisions regarding player participation are made by the team's medical experts.
"I'm a football coach. I lean on our medical experts in every situation. I have full trust and full faith in them," Sirianni said. He emphasized that the same medical staff that ensured player availability during the Super Bowl are the ones making these decisions.
Hurts, 28, has been diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis and bilateral pulmonary emboli. He will not be able to participate in football activities while undergoing treatment with blood thinner medications, according to a joint statement released by the Eagles and Hurts' agent on Monday. The statement did not provide a timeline for his return.
Sources told ESPN that Hurts was hospitalized in London until 4 a.m. on Sunday, prior to the Eagles' game against the Jacksonville Jaguars on October 11.
Superficial blood clots, which are close to the skin, rarely travel to the lungs. However, according to ABC News' medical correspondent Dr. Darien Sutton, risks that can increase the likelihood of a clot traveling to the lungs include prolonged immobility, extended travel, injury, inflammation, or inherited genetic factors.
Pulmonary embolism can lead to serious complications, including permanent lung damage, low blood oxygen levels, and damage to other organs due to insufficient oxygen.
A timeline provided by the Eagles organization outlines the progression of Hurts' injury:
Sunday, Oct. 4 – Hurts sustains an injury during a game against the Rams.
Thursday, Oct. 8 – Hurts informs the Eagles' medical staff of the injury and receives treatment for a calf injury.
Friday, Oct. 9 – After receiving further treatment, Hurts practices fully with the team.
Friday, Oct. 9 – Saturday, Oct. 10 – Hurts travels with the Eagles to London.
Saturday, Oct. 10 – An ultrasound reveals a superficial blood clot.
Saturday, Oct. 10 – Sunday, Oct. 11 – Sources indicated Hurts was hospitalized in London until 4 a.m. on Sunday.
Sunday, Oct. 11 – Hurts plays in the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. The team travels home immediately after the loss.
Monday, Oct. 12 – Tuesday, Oct. 13 – Hurts receives medical treatment.
Wednesday, Oct. 14 – Hurts practices fully with the team. A follow-up ultrasound in the evening shows movement in the small blood clot.
Thursday, Oct. 15 – The Eagles announce Hurts will miss the upcoming game against the Carolina Panthers.
Sunday, Oct. 18 – Hurts is not present on the sidelines for the Eagles' game against the Panthers.
Monday, Oct. 19 – The Eagles and Hurts' agent announce his diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis and bilateral pulmonary emboli, confirming he will be sidelined indefinitely.