Leigh Steinberg on Jalen Hurts’ Health Situation and Its Implications
Legendary NFL agent Leigh Steinberg discussed the situation involving Jalen Hurts’ recent health scare with a blood clot, along with its potential implications on the league and quarterback agents.
Steinberg emphasized the importance of involving medical experts to assess if the Eagles managed Hurts’ care properly. He stated that if one of his quarterback clients faced a similar issue, he would have sought answers from team doctors.
“The words ‘blood clot’ would set off an alarm bell in my head,” he told OutKick. “I would have been in touch with the Eagles medical staff, and asked questions because a blood clot is a red flag.”
Further testing discovered that Hurts suffers from deep vein thrombosis and bilateral pulmonary emboli, leading to his expected absence for the rest of the season. In response, the NFL and NFL Players Association announced a review of the situation after the union’s call for an investigation.
Steinberg argues that the event underscores an agent’s duty beyond contract negotiations, including safeguarding player health. He affirmed trust in Hurts’ agent, Nicole Lynn, stating no implication of her inadequacy.
The attention centers on Hurts’ clearance to play against Jacksonville in London after an ultrasound revealed a superficial clot. Hurts first reported issues on Oct. 8 after an injury during a previous game, leading to an ultrasound in London on Oct. 10. The Eagles and local physicians deemed him fit to play. However, a subsequent Philadelphia ultrasound on Oct. 14 showed clot progression, placing him on injured reserve by Oct. 17.
“Should he have played in London? That’s an open question,” Steinberg said, underscoring that medical experts alone can evaluate the initial medical decisions.
Steinberg knows Eagles’ owner Jeffrey Lurie and general manager Howie Roseman and believes they prioritize player health. He acknowledged the condition may have worsened despite appropriate initial management.
The NFL defended the care provided to Hurts, while the NFLPA insisted on a comprehensive investigation. Although the review’s details are under discussion, it has not formally started.
Hurts’ condition remains serious, though Eagles and Lynn assert his clinical stability. Treatments include blood thinners, necessitating avoidance of contact activities. The statement assures his potential full recovery without long-term impact.
Superficial vein thrombosis, though less severe than deep vein thrombosis, demands careful consideration, given a potential transition to life-threatening pulmonary embolism.
Steinberg anticipates the case will heighten caution within the league. He linked this duty to his advocacy for concussion awareness through his foundation, promoting player safety.
The situation also poses football implications; Hurts’ extensive contract amplifies team vulnerability with his absence. Philadelphia now turns to Tanner McKee as quarterback, exposing a gap in experience.
“It alters the balance of power in football,” Steinberg said. “And it’s a big setback for the Eagles.”
Steinberg expressed broader concern about the long-term health impacts, reinforcing the importance of players’ safety beyond current seasons.
Jackson Thompson is a sports reporter for Fox News Digital, focusing on critical sports issues and cultural intersections, recognized by federal actions and major media outlets.