Philadelphia Eagles offensive shift following Jalen Hurts medical diagnosis
Jalen Hurts is sidelined for the remainder of the 2026 season after being diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis and bilateral pulmonary emboli. The Philadelphia Eagles must now rely on a quarterback rotation featuring Tanner McKee and newly signed Joe Milton III to stabilize production.
Jalen Hurts medical status
Jalen Hurts is sidelined as he treats blood clots in both of his lungs. The Philadelphia Eagles quarterback was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis and bilateral pulmonary emboli ahead of the Week 6 game. This condition followed an earlier diagnosis of superficial vein thrombosis while the team was in London for the Week 5 clash against the Jaguars. After his initial diagnosis of superficial vein thrombosis in London during the Week 5 clash with the Jaguars, Hurts required further imaging that revealed a more serious case of deep vein thrombosis and bilateral pulmonary emboli. Medical experts note that a superficial blood clot is not as severe a risk as deep vein thrombosis, but they still require serious attention. The treatment for this condition involves using blood thinners, and this medication prevents Hurts from participating in contact activities. He will likely miss the remainder of the 2026 season. The quarterback played in the Week 5 game despite staying in the hospital until 4 a.m. the night before the match. His agent, Nicole Lynn, stated that his prognosis is very good and they expect a full recovery. He remains active around the team while he undergoes treatment for the condition.
NFLPA investigation and medical scrutiny
The NFLPA is seeking a full investigation into the medical evaluation process. The players union issued a statement on Tuesday, October 20. Commissioner Roger Goodell said the league would welcome the investigation. The NFL and NFLPA released a joint statement on Sunday, October 25. They are working together to review the matter. The Eagles have faced heavy criticism for their handling of the medical situation in London. The team allowed Hurts to play through the initial diagnosis after he stayed in the hospital overnight. This scrutiny follows the discovery that the superficial clot had become a more serious case of deep vein thrombosis. The NFLPA wants answers regarding the medical evaluation process used by the team. The investigation focuses on the medical decisions made after the initial diagnosis in London. The league and the union are reviewing how the medical staff evaluated the quarterback.
The Philadelphia Eagles quarterback rotation
The Philadelphia Eagles must rely on a different quarterback rotation to support a flailing offense. You should know that the team is making changes to the roster to jumpstart production. Tanner McKee, a sixth-round pick from the 2023 NFL Draft, is currently leading the unit. The team also signed Joe Milton III off the Dallas Cowboys practice squad on Friday, October 16. Milton previously played for the New England Patriots after they drafted him in the sixth round in 2024. The roster includes Cole Payton, a fifth-round rookie and two-time FCS national champion with the Bison.
| Player | Role | Background |
|---|---|---|
| Tanner McKee | Starter | 2023 6th-round draft pick |
| Joe Milton III | Depth | Signed off Cowboys practice squad Oct 16 |
| Cole Payton | Depth | 5th-round rookie, two-time FCS champion |
How will the offensive production stabilize? The team must manage the depth chart as the season progresses. Milton, who was drafted by New England in 2024, provides additional depth for the squad. The rotation includes multiple options to address the quarterback position. The coaching staff remains focused on these players as the season continues.
