The Jalen Hurts era in Philadelphia will include another successful season with the Eagles securing their second NFC East title with Hurts under center. The definition of "success" may vary, but two divisional championships and four playoff appearances in four seasons as the starter is quite an accomplishment.
As the Eagles embark on another quest for a Super Bowl victory, the Green Bay Packers stand in their way in the opening round of the playoffs. These two teams have already met this season and delivered a thrilling game in Brazil as a part of the regular season kick-off.
Given their last matchup was in Week 1, we got to see both teams at near-full strength the last time they met. Now, 18 weeks down the road, both teams are dinged up after a lengthy season.
For the Packers, they'll be without standout corner Jaire Alexander and deep threat receiver Christian Watson. Most notably in Philadelphia, quarterback Jalen Hurts has been dealing with a couple injuries in the last few weeks, highlighted by a concussion.
Ahead of this NFC wild-card matchup, let's check in on the latest injury updates surrounding Philadelphia's star QB.
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Is Jalen Hurts playing this week? Injury update for Eagles' QB ahead of wild-card round
After getting lit up on a scramble early in Week 16 against the Commanders, Hurts immediately entered concussion protocol and did not return to the game. Ultimately, he was unable to suit up the following week and was then held out of the Eagles' regular-season finale as Philadelphia's playoff fate had already been decided.
Heading into the wild-card round, Hurts slowly ramped up his practice participation throughout the week. As of Friday, Hurts has cleared concussion protocol and will take the field against the Packers.
#Eagles coach Nick Sirianni says QB Jalen Hurts has cleared the NFL’s concussion protocol and is good to go vs the #Packers.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 10, 2025
The Eagles confirmed Hurts' return with a video of his arrival to Lincoln Financial Field ahead of Sunday's wild-card game against the Packers.
Tell a friend to tell a friend...
— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) January 12, 2025
HE'S BAAAAAAAACK 😏@JalenHurts | #FlyEaglesFly pic.twitter.com/6agyZ8vBir
This will mark Hurts' first start since Week 16 and the Eagles' first game on their quest for a Super Bowl victory.
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Eagles quarterback depth chart
| Eagles QB Depth Chart | |
|---|---|
| QB | Name |
| 1 | Jalen Hurts |
| 2 | Kenny Pickett |
| 3 | Tanner McKee |
In the absence of Hurts over the last few weeks, we've seen both Kenny Pickett and Tanner McKee get reps at quarterback. Both had their moments, but all signs point to Pickett remaining the backup to Hurts.
With Hurts cleared to play on Sunday. expect Pickett to serve as the backup while McKee will be the emergency third quarterback.
