Jalen Hurts' Career Not Over Despite Blood Clots, Experts Say

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts has been ruled out for the remainder of the season due to blood clots in his lungs, a condition that has raised questions about his future in the NFL. However, medical experts consulted by The Post believe his career is not over and anticipate a full recovery once he completes treatment.

Hurts was initially diagnosed with superficial vein thrombosis, a blood clot in his calf, on October 11, prior to the Eagles' loss to the Jaguars in London. Despite logging minimal sleep, he was cleared to play. Further testing revealed deep vein thrombosis and bilateral pulmonary emboli, blood clots in both lungs.

He is currently undergoing treatment with blood thinners, a process that prohibits him from playing. According to Dr. William Shutze, vice president of the Society for Vascular Surgery, the minimum duration for blood thinner treatment is typically three months, but it can extend to six months for individuals at higher risk of developing another clot. Dr. Shutze noted that anyone who has experienced a blood clot is at an elevated risk for another.

Blood clots can arise from prolonged immobility, such as extended travel or illness; clotting disorders; or trauma. Hurts reported calf pain on October 8, attributing it to being cleated during an October 4 game against the Rams, which could be classified as trauma. His recent travel, including two seven-hour flights within three days for the London trip, may have also contributed.

Dr. Alina Mitina, an Emergency Medicine Physician at Hackensack University Medical Center, stated that while some patients can cease blood thinners after three to six months, others may require lifelong treatment if they have a significant risk factor like a clotting disorder. If Hurts falls into the latter category, his football career could be jeopardized.

"It's not a set thing that he is going to be out forever, not playing. It’s all going to be based on what the treatment looks like and I think it’s just only the beginning," Dr. Mitina told The Post. She also emphasized the dangers associated with being on blood thinners, particularly the risk of bleeding, including in the head, and the potential lethality of a clot fragment traveling to the lungs.

Despite the seriousness of the diagnosis, Hurts' camp has expressed optimism. A statement from the team and his agent, Nicole Lynn, read, "Jalen’s prognosis is very good, and we expect a full recovery. We anticipate that he will have the opportunity to resume contact football activities when off the blood thinners." The statement also indicated that Hurts will remain active around the team and continue conditioning during his recovery.

The Eagles placed Hurts on injured reserve before his season was officially cut short. His mother, Pamela Hurts, shared a message of gratitude on social media, emphasizing the fragility of life.

Since joining the Eagles in 2020, Hurts has been a pivotal player, leading the team to two Super Bowl appearances, including a championship win in 2025, and earning Super Bowl MVP honors. The Eagles are scheduled to play the Cowboys on Monday Night Football in Week 7.