Despite all of his accomplishments since 2022, Jalen Hurts isn't a lock to remain the franchise quarterback of the Philadelphia Eagles.
Hurts, a three-time Pro Bowler and Super Bowl MVP, apparently recommended the final offensive play of Philadelphia's 2025 season. The Eagles dialed up "four verts" and watched their championship dreams get crushed at home by the injury-plagued San Francisco 49ers in the opening round of the playoffs.
According to ESPN's Tim McManus and Jeremy Fowler, the Eagles and Hurts are at a crossroads heading into the 2026 season. There's apparently a lot of tension behind the scenes due to the quarterback's unwillingness to "diversify" the offensive scheme.
"Though there is plenty of blame to spread, Hurts has had a hand in the offense becoming calcified, according to several team sources who spoke to ESPN on condition of anonymity," McManus and Fowler wrote.
"He has pushed back on changes that would diversify the scheme, sources said, including when it comes to him going under center more. He has shown a reluctance to let it rip at times, particularly against zone coverage. He diverts from the game plan and changes playcalls to what some feel is an excessive degree. His strong preferences, coupled with the coaches' efforts to play to his strengths, which include his deep ball accuracy and throws to the perimeter, limits the breadth to which the offense can expand -- or at least that's the way it has gone in the past."
Jan 11, 2026; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts (1) after the anthem against the San Francisco 49ers in an NFC Wild Card Round game at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images © Bill Streicher-Imagn Images.
Will Hurts redeem himself in 2026?
The Eagles ranked 19th in scoring (22.3 points per game) and 18th in rushing yards during the 2025 season. The lack of a ground game certainly put more pressure on Hurts' shoulders.
In an effort to address their offensive struggles, the Eagles hired Sean Mannion as their offensive coordinator. Will he have success in Philly? Only time will tell if he ends up being the right coach for the job.
That being said, Hurts needs to prove he can return to his 2024 form. If he can do that, he'll silence his doubters.
Until then, it sounds like Hurts has to win over some nonbelievers.
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