Jalen Hurts Blood Clot Case Raises New Questions About Philadelphia Eagles Medical Care

Jalen Hurts’ blood clot diagnosis has put the spotlight on the NFL’s medical clearance process© Image via: X/@NFL_DovKleiman

Jalen Hurts' entire season was marred by some scary developments when it was discovered that blood clots were in his lungs, creating questions on how he should be treated, questions that the NFL has not been able to answer completely. Ahead of a game between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Jacksonville Jaguars in London, Jalen Hurts had gone through tests to ascertain whether there were any problems with his calves. He was cleared to play and even finished the match before heading back to America with the Eagles. Further tests revealed that there was something more severe, leading to treatment and absence from games.

How Philadelphia Eagles Reached Their Decision Before The London Game

The situation arose when Hurts complained about a calf issue while the Eagles were preparing for their international game. There was a diagnosis of a superficial blood clot from an ultrasound conducted at Cleveland Clinic London, and after consultation with doctors, it was decided that the quarterback was able to play.

In the meantime, Hurts appeared on the field during every offensive play against Jacksonville, recording 220 passing yards and a touchdown for the Eagles win. After the game, it was noted that he had no restrictions playing.

Jalen Hurts will be out for the season after doctors discovered multiple blood clots in his lungs. https://t.co/PYfJpO16FS

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 19, 2026

The NFL's chief medical officer Dr. Allen Sills defended the approach of the medical staff of the Eagles, calling it “very conservative, very patient-focused and appropriately guarded.” Meanwhile, Commissioner Roger Goodell also argued that the protocol was observed.

Why The NFL Players Association Wants A Closer Examination

The league has stated that no disciplinary action will be taken against Philadelphia for this case. Officials have continued to keep in touch with the Eagles and Cleveland Clinic London in relation to the care of the quarterback. Goodell has noted that the NFL would accept an investigation from the players' union.

The NFLPA has demanded that there be more clarification in the case before anything can be finalized. Questions have arisen in relation to the extent of the league's review of this case and its desire for an analysis of the situation in which Hurts was given clearance and then diagnosed.

The latter finding of serious blood clots does not, in itself, mean that the initial decision was made negligently. It has not yet been determined whether playing in London and returning on the plane caused the blood clot to shift.

The focus for the Eagles has to be on the health of Hurts. For the NFL and the players' association, it comes down to determining, based on the medical documentation, whether there is indeed anything that needs to be done differently in terms of the protection of the player.