Eagles QB Jalen Hurts ruled out Sunday due to blood clot in calf

PHILADELPHIA - Jalen Hurts has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Panthers after being diagnosed with a superficial blood clot in his calf, the Philadelphia Eagles announced Thursday.

Team officials said Hurts’ health and safety are their highest priority, and a timeline for his return has not been set.

Eagles face quarterback change as injuries mount

What we know:

Hurts was first injured in the calf area after taking a cleat during the Oct. 4 game against the Los Angeles Rams, according to the team. He practiced after that injury but reported calf pain, prompting further evaluation.

According to an Eagles statement, a precautionary ultrasound last Saturday in London revealed a superficial blood clot. Medical staff determined Hurts could safely play, and he participated in the game against the Jaguars, where he completed 21 of 40 passes for 220 yards and a touchdown in a 19-17 loss.

Backup Plan: McKee Steps In

Hurts informed backup quarterback Tanner McKee that he would be the starter for Sunday's matchup. McKee, the Eagles’ primary backup over the past two seasons, is expected to start against the Panthers after Andy Dalton's recent release.

McKee has two career starts and completed 54 of 88 passes for five touchdowns and one interception. 

"Every opportunity that you get to play is a huge opportunity, especially being a sixth-round pick," McKee said.

Hurts' blood clot diagnosis

Timeline:

Hurts practiced last week and reported his symptoms to team medical staff after practice on Oct. 8. Following the team's flight to London and walk-through, an ultrasound on Saturday identified the blood clot. Doctors in London reviewed the results and allowed him to play, recommending a follow-up ultrasound within 72 hours.

Hurts continued practicing, received treatment when the team returned to Philadelphia, and was a full participant on Wednesday. However, a follow-up ultrasound that night showed movement in the clot, leading to the decision to sit him out Sunday.

Dig deeper:

Hurts joins a growing list of injured Eagles, including Saquon Barkley and DeVonta Smith, both sidelined with hamstring issues. The team has also dealt with Lane Johnson's retirement, Cam Jurgens' trade, and recent injuries to players like Jonathan Greenard, Jalyx Hunt, Michael Carter, Will Shipley, and Quinyon Mitchell.

"As much adversity as we've handled, it also has created so much opportunity for our young guys. That's what I keep focusing on," said Eagles lineman Jordan Mailata.

What we don't know:

The Eagles have not provided a timeline for Hurts’ recovery or return to game action. The specific treatment plan for his blood clot has yet to be determined, and it remains unclear precisely when the team expects other key injured players to return.

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