Jalen Hurts was cleared to play in the Philadelphia Eagles’ Week 5 game in London despite a diagnosis of a superficial blood clot in his calf, a decision that has sparked intense criticism from NFL media and raised questions about the team’s medical judgment. The Eagles’ star quarterback and Super Bowl 59 MVP now faces a more serious health issue, with blood clots found in both his lungs, ruling him out for the rest of the season.
Nick Kostos, a sports betting writer and contributor for The Athletic, called the Eagles’ handling of Hurts’ condition “the single most bats*** story” he has seen in 36 years of following sports. Speaking on the “Football America” podcast with Dave Dameshek, Kostos said, “The NFL and the Eagles are lucky this guy didn’t die on the field.” His comments reflect a broader anger in the sports media over the decision to let Hurts play under such risky circumstances.
The initial diagnosis of a superficial blood clot in Hurts’ calf should have raised red flags given the known risks of blood clots moving to more dangerous areas of the body. Fans and commentators have questioned why medical staff allowed Hurts to participate in a game halfway across the world, followed by a long return trip to the United States. There was also controversy over reports suggesting Hurts was told to stay awake for 36 hours to adapt to the US time zone, though the Eagles and NFL denied these claims, saying the team was simply advised to stay up late to adjust the body clock.
The Eagles have defended their approach, standing by their medical protocols despite the worsening of Hurts’ condition to deep vein thrombosis and bilateral pulmonary emboli. The NFL has also said the team did not break any protocol and will not impose any punishment. Still, the NFL Players Association has called for a full investigation into the situation, signaling ongoing concern over the management of Hurts’ health.
Hurts’ situation has drawn support from teammates and fellow players. Wide receiver A.J. Brown sent a heartfelt message to Hurts after the diagnosis, showing the personal impact of the ordeal within the team.
The controversy has cast a shadow over the Eagles’ season, raising questions about player safety and the responsibilities of medical staff and team management. The team’s choice to field Hurts despite his condition remains under scrutiny, with media figures like Kostos demanding accountability.
This story continues to unfold as the NFL and Eagles navigate the fallout from one of the most debated health decisions in recent memory.
According to Yahoo Sports.
