NFL Network analyst Michael Robinson has issued an apology after questioning Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts’ health status amid the player’s blood clot diagnosis that ended his season. Robinson admitted on Monday, October 19, that his comments from the previous Thursday were “unfounded” and that he should not have speculated about Hurts’ medical condition or his dedication to the team.
The former San Francisco 49ers running back sparked controversy on October 15 when he suggested Hurts might be using his health issues as an excuse to step away from a struggling Eagles side. Robinson said on-air, “I don’t know nothing, guys, but it looked like they were trying to pin the outcome of this season on Jalen Hurts, just so that they can have an excuse later on to move on from Jalen Hurts.” He also added, “if I’m Jalen Hurts or anybody in Jalen Hurts’ camp, I’m saying, ‘Well, if everybody’s hurt, I’m hurt, too.’ ”
Robinson’s remarks came shortly after the Eagles announced Hurts would miss the remainder of the 2024 season following the discovery of multiple blood clots in his lungs. Hurts’ agent Nicole Lynn clarified on Monday that what was first described as a “superficial blood clot” had worsened to deep vein thrombosis and bilateral pulmonary emboli. Lynn stated, “He is clinically stable and has no significant functional limitations,” but confirmed Hurts would be on blood thinners and barred from contact activities, including football.
The initial blood clot was detected prior to the Eagles’ game in London against the Jacksonville Jaguars on October 11, but Hurts was cleared to play and travel back with the team on the subsequent eight-hour flight. Days later, the clot moved from his calf to his lungs. The situation raised questions about the team’s handling of the player’s health, which Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni addressed on Monday.
Sirianni said, “The health of our players is always at the forefront of our minds, and we leave that up to the medical experts, but we always, always care deeply about our players.” He added, “When you are completely focused on togetherness and connection, you’re always thinking about the well-being of your guys, and that’s where we were in that situation.”
Robinson’s apology extended beyond social media, as he also expressed regret during Monday’s NFL Network broadcast. He wrote on X, “I want to sincerely apologize to Jalen Hurts, his family, the Philadelphia Eagles organization and fan base for my comments last Thursday. They were unfounded and I never should’ve speculated on a health issue of a player nor his commitment to his team.”
Hurts’ absence leaves the Eagles without their starting quarterback as they navigate the rest of the season. The seriousness of the blood clots and the treatment Hurts requires underline the health risks involved. No timetable has been given for his return beyond the current season.
The incident has sparked discussion about the risks players face and how media analysis can intersect with sensitive health matters. Robinson’s public apology signals recognition of the impact such comments can have, particularly when made before full medical details are available.
According to Yahoo Sports.