PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts has been ruled out of Sunday’s game against the Carolina Panthers due to a superficial blood clot in his calf, the team announced Thursday.
Hurts was listed as a full participant in Friday’s practice before the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars because of a calf injury. He had no injury designation for Sunday’s match in London.
The Eagles released a statement detailing the process that led to the discovery of the blood clot.
“On Thursday, October 8, Jalen went to the training room after practice to seek treatment for his calf,” the team said. “He informed the medical staff that he was cramped during the Rams game on Oct. 4. This was his first treatment session for his calf injury after the game, after practicing fully Wednesday and Thursday. On Friday, Jalen received treatment, practiced fully and was added to the practice report.
“Out of an abundance of caution, an ultrasound was performed Saturday after the team flew to London and visited. The ultrasound revealed a superficial blood clot. Our medical team and doctors in London reviewed the results and concluded that activity and mobility were significant and that Jalen was safe to play. Doctors recommended a follow-up ultrasound within 72 hours of the game and flight back to Philadelphia.”
The Eagles said Hurts “played without limitations” against the Jaguars before receiving treatment Monday and Tuesday and then practicing fully on Wednesday.
“Wednesday evening, a follow-up ultrasound revealed movement in the small blood clot. Jalen will be out for Sunday’s game against the Panthers as we determine the appropriate treatment. His health and safety are our highest priority,” the Eagles said.
The Eagles remained in communication with the NFL office throughout the process, the team said.
When asked about his injury Wednesday, Hurts said he was “stung” against the Rams while suggesting the preparation for the Jaguars game was anything but ordinary.
“It was a unique experience to say the least. I don’t want to get into the details of preparing for the game and whatnot, but I was caught at the Rams game,” he said.
Hurts didn’t take the field until just before kickoff against Jacksonville and rode the stationary bike between sets. He said both actions were related to the veal. He completed 21 of 40 passes for 220 yards and a touchdown in the 19-17 loss to the Jaguars.
Treatment timeline
Dr. Andrea Lubitz, a vascular surgeon at Temple Health, said treatment for a superficial blood clot depends on its location.
“It all depends on the location. For that, usually what you do first when someone has a superficial clot, you just put things to rest,” Lubitz said.
Lubitz said superficial blood clots are usually treated with compresses and painkillers, although some patients may require more extensive treatment. She said the recovery time can vary.
“The truth is it could take up to six weeks for everything to be sorted out, but he might be able to play again. It’s all going to depend on how honestly they treat him,” Lubitz said.
Tanner McKee is expected to start in place of Hurts against the Panthers.
“As a quarterback, and especially as a backup quarterback, you have to be ready at all times. The good thing is the way I prepare and the way I prepare is not going to change,” McKee said.
McKee said he hopes Hurts can return soon.
“I love Jalen. He’s a great teammate to me, he’s been a great mentor to me. We’ve been brothers for 4 years, so obviously I hope all the best for him,” McKee said.
Hurts, 28, has 933 passing yards, eight touchdowns and three interceptions this season. He led the Eagles to two Super Bowl appearances and earned MVP honors after beating the Kansas City Chiefs to win the championship in the 2024 season.
Hurts is in the middle of a five-year, $255 million extension, including $179.3 million guaranteed, with the Eagles taking him through the 2028 season.
The Eagles stunned fans when they drafted Hurts out of Oklahoma in the second round in 2020. They apparently had Carson Wentz cut at QB and had more pressing needs. Hurts was expected to serve as insurance for Wentz. Instead, he supplanted him and became one of the best young quarterbacks in the NFL.
ESPN contributed to this report.
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