NFL commissioner says league welcomes NFLPA investigation into Jalen Hurts' blood clot case

The NFL Players Association announced it will seek a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts traveling to London, playing, and returning to Philadelphia while reportedly having a blood clot in his leg. Commissioner Roger Goodell told reporters at the NFL quarterly ownership meetings in New York that the league "welcome[s] that" investigation.

Under Article 39, Section 5(f) of the collective bargaining agreement, either the league or the NFLPA may commence an inquiry before the Accountability and Care Committee regarding health, safety, or medical care provided by club personnel. The agreement requires that within 60 days of initiating an investigation, two or more neutral physicians or subject-matter experts be selected to examine the case and submit a written report with recommendations, which the parties must act upon.

The NFL has reportedly completed its own review and concluded that the Eagles handled the situation appropriately. Former NFLPA executive director DeMaurice Smith said the union has the unilateral right to launch its own investigation and emphasized that the collective-bargaining provisions have allowed the NFLPA to conduct medical investigations whenever a player's health and safety is at risk.

Smith added that exercising these rights is essential for holding league and team medical staff accountable. The NFLPA’s planned investigation will proceed regardless of the league’s stance.