Sports
Eagles’ Jalen Hurts Shaken Up in Playoff Game Against Rams
PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts was shaken up during a critical third-quarter drive in their playoff game against the Los Angeles Rams on Saturday. Hurts suffered an apparent left knee injury after being sacked, with both legs bending awkwardly during the play.
Hurts, visibly limping, handed off to running back Saquon Barkley on a 3rd-and-17 play before the Eagles settled for a field goal, taking a 16-13 lead. He immediately entered the medical tent for evaluation. At the time of the injury, Hurts had completed 12 of 17 passes for 109 yards and rushed six times for 71 yards and a touchdown.
NBC Sports reporter Melissa Stark confirmed the injury was to Hurts’ left knee, noting he was seen grimacing as he entered the tent. Hurts remained inside during the start of the Rams’ ensuing drive. Despite the scare, he returned to the field after a brief examination, sporting a brace on his left knee.
Hurts’ resilience was tested again when he was sacked in the end zone on the next drive, resulting in a safety that cut Philadelphia’s lead to 16-15. The quarterback had been a key factor in the Eagles’ success this season, finishing the regular season with 2,903 passing yards, 18 touchdowns, five interceptions, and 14 rushing touchdowns.
Earlier in the week, Hurts addressed concerns about the Eagles’ lack of explosive passing plays in their Wild Card win over the Green Bay Packers. “Every game is different,” Hurts said. “I think you guys need to understand that I don’t play the game for anything other than to win. My role in each game will be different, and the approach in each game is different.”
The Eagles’ playoff hopes now hinge on Hurts’ ability to stay healthy and perform under pressure as they face a tough Rams defense. The game, held at Lincoln Financial Field, drew significant attention as both teams battled for a spot in the NFC Championship.