PHILADELPHIA -- Jalen Hurts has missed the last two games for the Philadelphia Eagles as the quarterback remains in the NFL's concussion protocol. Sunday's regular-season finale against the New York Giants, held at Lincoln Financial Field, should be the last game Hurts misses before returning to action.
CBS Sports sideline reporter AJ Ross, covering the Eagles' Week 18 game against the Giants, indicated on "That Other Pregame Show" Hurts was present at the team's official walkthrough on Sunday. This positive development means the Eagles quarterback is making progress through the league's five-step concussion protocol, enhancing the chances of his return before the team's playoff opener.
Following the regular season's conclusion with the Eagles' victory over the Giants, the team's focus has shifted to the upcoming Wild Card matchup against the Green Bay Packers. Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni expressed optimism about Hurts' potential return, emphasizing the significance of the quarterback's health for the postseason. The Eagles will face the Packers, who will come to Philadelphia ready for the challenge.
Despite the absence of Hurts, the Eagles managed to clinch their playoff spot and ended the regular season with momentum after defeating the Giants 20-13. The team relied on backup quarterback Tanner McKee to step up during Hurts' absence, allowing them to secure the victory even as Hurts remained sidelined. "It’s about the team, and everyone has to step up when asked," Sirianni remarked about the depth of the squad.
Interestingly, Hurts remains the center of attention as the team prepares for the playoffs. His status, still uncertain though promising, looms large. The Eagles and their fans are anxious for his return, hoping it boosts their playoff aspirations. His comeback would be pivotal, considering the Eagles' favorable positioning heading against formidable opponents who will be battling for playoff glory as well.
The Eagles' path to the championship won't be easy. They have tough matchups lined up with coaching duos like Matt LaFleur and Jordan Love of the Packers expected to give the Eagles serious competition early on. Notably, the Eagles have not faced the Packers since their narrow victory during Week 1, where they edged out the Packers by just three points; this adds extra motivation as they gear up for the rematch.
Concerns also linger about the overall health of the Eagles' roster. While Hurts' health is top of mind, tight end Dallas Goedert's latest injury updates indicate he's recovered enough to contribute, having played against the Giants after being activated from injured reserve. The team is near full strength, with the recent win contributing to their confidence heading to the playoffs.
Fans are eagerly awaiting the NFL playoff schedule, prompt to tune in for the first round of playoff games set to begin this Sunday. Hurts’ status, as a primary variable, plays significantly not just for the Eagles but has stirred discussion among analysts and fans alike about how deep the Eagles can go this postseason.
On the other hand, the Eagles are also dealing with some off-field stories as the season wraps up, including coaching changes across the league. Former Eagles head coach Doug Pederson was released from his position at the Jacksonville Jaguars after handling his team to subpar performance once again. His departure allows for fresh starts for both him and the Jaguars as they navigate the offseason moving forward.
For the Eagles, the upcoming matchup against the Packers—and possibly tougher opponents down the line—will hinge largely on Jalen Hurts' ability to recover and return to full-fledged action. But the Eagles also acknowledge the contributions and readiness of their backup players, illustrating the team’s depth and resilience throughout the season.
Quarterback Jalen Hurts and Coach Sirianni know the stakes are high and will be making every effort to adapt and prevail against their playoff foes. If Hurts recovers and returns to his previous form, the Eagles' playoff story will surely take on new life, aiming for their perfect ending amid the postseason battles.