NFL Clears Eagles, Jalen Hurts in Blood Clot Investigation

The National Football League has concluded its review of the Philadelphia Eagles' handling of quarterback Jalen Hurts' blood clot diagnosis, determining that the team acted appropriately and will not face any disciplinary action. The investigation stemmed from Hurts playing in a game with a developing medical condition.

Hurts participated in the Oct. 11 game against the Jacksonville Jaguars in London without an injury designation, despite a calf injury being noted on the official report. Subsequent testing revealed the presence of blood clots in his left calf, which later expanded to include blood clots on his lungs. This condition has since led to him being placed on injured reserve and is expected to keep him sidelined for at least three months.

The NFL communicated with the Eagles and their medical staff regarding the situation and confirmed that league policies concerning injury report designations were not violated. The medical evaluations and decisions were made in coordination with independent doctors and the league's chief medical officer.

The timeline of events began on Oct. 8 when Hurts sought treatment for his calf, four days after sustaining an injury during a game on Oct. 4. He practiced fully and was added to the injury report, but the team anticipated he would play his usual amount of snaps. An ultrasound the following day revealed a superficial blood clot in his calf.

In London, the NFL's chief medical doctor, Allen Sills, collaborated with the Eagles' chief medical officer, Mark Gillett, arranging for Hurts to be examined at the Cleveland Clinic. Doctors there determined that physical activity and mobility were important and that he could play safely. The NFL confirmed its involvement, stating that Dr. Sills works with independent medical providers in international markets, with the approval of the NFL Players Association, and that player medical care is a joint effort between club staff and independent physicians.

Following the game, Hurts reportedly returned to his hotel and rested before the Oct. 18 game against the Carolina Panthers, which the Eagles lost 19-17. Eagles coach Nick Sirianni emphasized the team's commitment to player well-being during his press conference.

By Oct. 18, further medical assessments indicated a change in Hurts' condition, with tests revealing a "deep vein thrombosis" in his calf and "bilateral pulmonary emboli," or blood clots on his lungs. The team placed him on injured reserve, requiring him to miss a minimum of four games. A statement released by the team and Hurts' agent indicated that while he is clinically stable and not experiencing significant functional limitations, he cannot participate in contact activities while on blood thinners. The prognosis is positive, with expectations of a full recovery and the ability to resume football activities after treatment concludes. The team anticipates no long-term effects from the condition.