Photo credit:Jalen Hurts/Instagram
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts reportedly played against the Jacksonville Jaguars after staying awake for approximately 36 hours because of concerns surrounding a blood clot. The revelation has raised questions about his decision to take the field before further medical tests revealed a more serious condition.
According to reports citing NFL insider Tom Pelissero, doctors advised Hurts not to sleep after initially diagnosing him with a superficial blood clot in his calf. Despite the unusual circumstances, Hurts started the Eagles’ Oct. 11 game against Jacksonville in London.
The quarterback completed 21 of 40 passes for 220 yards and one touchdown. He threw no interceptions during the Eagles’ 19-17 loss. However, subsequent medical evaluations revealed additional blood clots that have sidelined him for the remainder of the 2026 season, according to reports. USA Today reported the details of his sleepless night.
Doctors initially cleared Hurts to play
The Eagles’ medical timeline shows that Hurts first sought treatment for his calf on Oct. 8. He had sustained a blow to the area during Philadelphia’s Oct. 4 game against the Los Angeles Rams.
After the team traveled to London, an ultrasound on Oct. 10 revealed a superficial blood clot. The Eagles later said their medical staff and doctors in London reviewed the results and determined that Hurts could safely play.
Doctors also recommended a follow-up ultrasound within 72 hours of the game and the team’s return flight to Philadelphia.
Hurts subsequently played against Jacksonville without reported limitations. Meanwhile, the Eagles said they remained in communication with the NFL about the situation.
However, a follow-up ultrasound on Oct. 14 revealed movement in the clot. The team ruled Hurts out of its next game against the Carolina Panthers while doctors considered the appropriate treatment.
Further tests reveal a more serious condition
The situation became more concerning after additional medical evaluations identified deep vein thrombosis and bilateral pulmonary emboli. The latter condition involves blood clots in both lungs.
On Oct. 17, the Eagles placed Hurts on injured reserve. The team and his agent, Nicole Lynn, provided a further update on Oct. 19, confirming the more serious diagnosis.
According to their statement, Hurts is clinically stable and will receive anticoagulant treatment, commonly known as blood thinners. However, he cannot participate in contact activities, including football, while undergoing that treatment.
The team and Lynn expressed optimism about his recovery and expect him to return to football when medically cleared. Nevertheless, reports indicate that he is expected to miss the remainder of the season. The Eagles’ official update provides further details about his condition.
Questions emerge over decision to play
News that Hurts reportedly went without sleep before the London game has prompted concern among fans. Many are questioning how the quarterback was cleared to play after receiving a blood clot diagnosis.
The timeline also raises questions about how the team assessed the risks before the game. Still, the Eagles have stated that their medical staff and doctors in London reviewed the ultrasound results and considered it safe for Hurts to participate.
The team’s public statements do not establish that officials knowingly disregarded medical advice. The reported instruction not to sleep and the decision to clear Hurts for the game require careful distinction, as the full medical circumstances have not been publicly detailed.
For now, Hurts’ health remains the priority as he begins treatment. The Eagles have expressed confidence in his recovery, although his absence will be a significant setback for the team during the remainder of the season.
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Sources: TheGrio Instagram post, Philadelphia Eagles official statements, USA Today and Reuters.
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