An insider details the potential split between the Eagles and Jalen Hurts.
The Philadelphia Eagles are seemingly committed to Nick Sirianni as their head coach despite the team’s struggles during the latter part of the previous season. However, Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio suggests that the Eagles could entertain the possibility of parting ways with quarterback Jalen Hurts during the upcoming offseason.
Hurts inked a lucrative five-year contract extension last spring, reportedly valued at up to $255 million with $179.3 million guaranteed. Florio explains that trading Hurts before June 1 would result in a manageable 2024 cap hit of $18.632 million, with no financial obligations for the following year.
It’s worth noting that Hurts’ contract includes a full no-trade clause, adding complexity to any potential trade discussions. Despite this, there are factors that might prompt the Eagles to explore the option of moving on from Hurts.
In the 2023 regular season, Hurts ranked 12th in adjusted QBR (60.0), 15th in completion percentage (65.4%), and tied for 13th in passing touchdowns (23) among qualified players, according to ESPN stats. However, he also threw 15 interceptions, trailing only two other quarterbacks, and while he excelled in rushing with 15 scores, concerns about his leadership style emerged within the Eagles organization.
Reports from Jeff McLane of the Philadelphia Inquirer and Joseph Santoliquito of Bleeding Green Nation suggest that some within and around the Eagles felt Hurts needed to exhibit a more outward leadership style, especially during challenging times. Santoliquito’s recent report indicates a perception among sources close to the team that Hurts has changed since signing his hefty contract extension and could improve his leadership qualities.
Despite the financial commitments involved in Hurts’ contract, Florio suggests that the guaranteed money over the next two to three years may not be prohibitive for potential suitors, given the fluid nature of NFL salary cap management.
While there’s no current indication that the Eagles are actively seeking to trade Hurts before the upcoming draft, circumstances in the NFL can evolve rapidly. Florio points to the Cleveland Browns’ successful pursuit of Deshaun Watson from the Houston Texans less than two years ago, a move facilitated by a substantial contract offer despite initial skepticism about its feasibility.
In summary, while the Eagles have not signaled an intention to part ways with Hurts, factors such as his contract structure, on-field performance, and perceived leadership qualities could potentially lead to a reevaluation of his future with the team.