As the Philadelphia Eagles gear up for their wild-card showdown against the Green Bay Packers, all eyes are on quarterback Jalen Hurts. After suffering a concussion on December 22 in a matchup against the Commanders, Hurts returned to practice on Wednesday in a limited capacity. The big question now is: Can he lead the Eagles to victory in the 2024 NFL playoffs?
Hurts Back on the Field
Wednesday’s practice marked a significant milestone for Hurts, his first on-field action since the injury. Despite the limited reps, the quarterback looked sharp and energetic, drawing praise from left tackle Jordan Mailata. “He came in with high energy and didn’t miss a beat,” Mailata said. It’s a good sign for an Eagles offense that has missed its leader for the past two games.
Clearing the Protocols
According to NFL concussion protocols, Hurts still has hurdles to clear before taking the field on Sunday. After progressing through non-contact activities without symptoms, he must be cleared for full practice and eventual gameplay by both the Eagles’ medical staff and an independent neurological consultant. While there’s optimism surrounding his return, nothing is guaranteed until he completes each step of the protocol.
Staying in the Game Plan
Even while sidelined, Hurts has been deeply involved in the team’s preparations. Over the past few weeks, he’s worked closely with offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, ensuring he stays aligned with the game plan. This proactive approach reflects Hurts’ commitment to leading the team, whether on the field or from the sidelines.
Coach Sirianni’s Confidence
Head coach Nick Sirianni isn’t worried about rust affecting Hurts’ performance. “Practice is where you get back in rhythm,” Sirianni said, emphasizing that the limited reps are a crucial step in syncing up with teammates before the playoffs. Sirianni’s confidence in Hurts underscores his importance to the team’s playoff aspirations.
What’s at Stake for the Eagles?
The Eagles finished the regular season strong, but their success in the postseason will likely hinge on Hurts’ availability and readiness. His dual-threat capabilities make him a nightmare for opposing defenses and a key piece of the Eagles’ offense. If Hurts can suit up against the Packers, the Eagles’ chances of advancing improve significantly. Without him, the road to a championship becomes much steeper.
Final Thoughts
As Sunday’s wild-card game looms, the Eagles and their fans remain hopeful that Jalen Hurts will be ready to take the reins. His presence could be the spark the team needs to make a deep playoff run. For now, the focus is on his health and readiness as the Eagles look to make their mark in the 2024 NFL playoffs.