PHILADELPHIA – The Philadelphia Eagles may face a tough challenge this Sunday against the Dallas Cowboys without their starting quarterback Jalen Hurts and possibly his backup, Kenny Pickett.
During the Eagles’ recent game against the Washington Commanders, Hurts sustained a concussion after being hit in the helmet while attempting a 13-yard run. The play led to his substitution by Pickett, who briefly took over and completed a touchdown pass. Hurts initially seemed eager to return but was ultimately ruled out for the remainder of the game after being evaluated in the medical tent.
Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni confirmed that Hurts is currently in the NFL’s concussion protocol, which includes a rigorous five-step process that must be completed before he can play again. The recovery timeline for concussion protocols can vary significantly from player to player, leaving Hurts’ status uncertain for Sunday’s game.
In a concerning development, Pickett also experienced a rib injury but managed to stay in the game. He expressed intent to undergo further medical evaluations in the coming days.
If both quarterbacks are unable to play, third-string quarterback Tanner McKee would likely take the helm. McKee, who has yet to play in a regular-season game and is primarily listed as the emergency QB, has been honing his skills through repeated practice sessions. Sirianni expressed confidence in both McKee and Pickett’s abilities, indicating they have been working diligently to prepare.
The Eagles may also consider signing another quarterback to their practice squad as a precaution if Hurts’ and Pickett’s situations do not improve.
Overall, while the Eagles face potential difficulties heading into a crucial matchup, the situation provides an opportunity for backup players to step up and showcase their skills. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the team adapts to these unexpected challenges.
This unfolding scenario emphasizes the unpredictable nature of football and the importance of depth in team rosters. The Eagles have shown resilience in the past, which could bode well for them in this critical stage of the season.