Eagles coach Nick Sirianni has strongly defended quarterback Jalen Hurts against claims that he was merely “along for the ride” during the team’s recent Super Bowl victory. In a session with Eagles beat reporters, Sirianni emphasized Hurts’ crucial role in the team’s success, asserting that his selflessness and flexibility were vital assets.
Sirianni dismissed the notion that running back Saquon Barkley, a powerful offensive line, and standout receivers like A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith were the sole catalysts for the Eagles’ triumph over the Kansas City Chiefs. He stated, “(Hurts) plays the most important position in all of sports. And what I admire about him is his selflessness of doing anything we need to do to win.”
Despite Hurts throwing for under 200 yards in six regular-season games and his relatively low passing statistics overall—2,903 yards, his lowest as a full-time starter—Sirianni highlighted Hurts’ ability to adapt to the game’s demands. Notably, during the Super Bowl, when the Chiefs contained Barkley to just 57 rushing yards, Hurts stepped up with a stellar performance, completing 17 of 22 passes for 221 yards and two touchdowns, ultimately earning the MVP title.
Sirianni pointed out that successful teams depend on the collaboration of talented players across all positions, including quarterback. He also expressed his frustration over the debate surrounding Hurts’ role, recognizing that discourse often serves the media but fails to reflect the team dynamics in football. His defense underscored Hurts’ contributions and the importance of teamwork in achieving success.
This strong advocacy from Sirianni not only highlights Hurts’ capabilities as an adaptable quarterback but also encapsulates the spirit of teamwork essential in football. With the Eagles basking in their recent success, there’s hope that Hurts will continue to grow and lead the team in future seasons.