Critics Target NFL and Eagles Over Handling of Jalen Hurts' Blood Clot

Media partners of the NFL have voiced strong criticism of the league and the Philadelphia Eagles over the handling of quarterback Jalen Hurts' blood-clot injury discovered in Week 5. On ESPN's First Take, commentator Chris "Mad Dog" Russo said the Eagles did a "horrendous job" and expressed doubt about the league's safety claims, noting the rapid timeline that saw Hurts return to travel and then be ruled out for the remainder of the season. > "One thing if I may about this whole thing with Hurts, the Eagles did a horrendous job, OK?" Russo said.

Mike Silver, a writer for The Athletic and former NFL employee, also criticized the league's response in a column, describing the situation as a medical evaluation that placed the player at heightened risk and accusing the NFL of a "cover-your-ass" approach. > "Imagine medically evaluating an employee on an off-site work assignment, subjecting him to well-documented risk factors that could exacerbate the condition — and then having his symptoms worsen to the point where they are potentially life-threatening," Silver wrote.

NFL chief medical officer Allen Sills had previously characterized the league's actions as "very conservative, very patient-focused and appropriately guarded in every step," a description that prompted former player Devin McCourty to question whether such an approach should have precluded Hurts from playing a full-contact game shortly after hospital evaluation.

The criticism reflects broader concerns about the NFL's handling of serious health issues beyond concussions, recalling past congressional pressure that forced the league to address brain injuries. Several media outlets with business ties to the NFL appear to be pushing for greater transparency and accountability regarding player health protocols.