Dec 22, 2024; Landover, Maryland, USA; Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates after scoring a touchdown with Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts (1) against the Washington Commanders during the first quarter at Northwest Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

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Jalen Hurt Injury Update: Nick Sirianni shares gloomy game status

Hurts out, Pickett leads Eagles vs. Cowboys in NFC showdown.

The Philadelphia Eagles face uncertainty with quarterback Jalen Hurts still sidelined in concussion protocol. Head coach Nick Sirianni addressed the situation on Friday, saying, “[Hurts] is still in the protocol. It’s going to be tough for him to make it this week.”

As Nick Sirianni said, Jalen Hurts still in concussion protocol, so he’s not at #Eagles practice today. The QB will be listed as “OUT” for Sunday’s game vs. the Cowboys when the status report is released this afternoon. pic.twitter.com/duoLECQL9g
— Jeff McLane (@Jeff_McLane) December 27, 2024

Hurts suffered a concussion during last week’s game against the Washington Commanders. He exited in the first quarter after linebacker Frankie Luvu’s hit caused his head to strike the ground. Following the incident, Hurts was quickly ruled out.

Kenny Pickett steps in with added protection

Backup quarterback Kenny Pickett will take over again this week. Pickett, who played most of the game against the Commanders, is also nursing injuries. He revealed plans to wear extra padding to protect his ribs during Sunday’s game. Tanner McKee, a 2023 sixth-round draft pick from Stanford, will serve as the backup quarterback.

Philadelphia has also signed former backup Ian Book to the practice squad for additional depth at the position. This move highlights the team’s cautious approach with Hurts still unavailable.

Eagles’ playoff hopes hinge on division title

The Eagles’ loss to the Commanders dented their chances of securing the NFC’s No. 1 seed. However, they remain in control of their division. A win against the Dallas Cowboys this Sunday would clinch their second NFC East title in three years. This would also make the Week 18 matchup against the Giants less significant, potentially allowing Hurts and other starters extra rest before the playoffs.

Nick Sirianni says Jalen Hurts remains in concussion protocol and “It’s going to be tough for him to make it this week.”

Looking like Kenny Pickett Sunday against the Cowboys. pic.twitter.com/RHLmYgdK3f
— Tim McManus (@Tim_McManus) December 27, 2024

Sirianni acknowledged the challenge of playing without Hurts in a key game but appeared resigned to relying on Pickett again: “[It’s] going to be tough for him to make it this week.”

Pickett’s performance under scrutiny

Kenny Pickett’s first extended action of the season showed mixed results. He completed 14 of 24 passes for 143 yards, averaging six yards per completion, with one touchdown and one interception. His 72.0 passer rating highlighted a conservative approach, avoiding deep throws but managing the game efficiently.

Hurts’ absence leaves Philadelphia reliant on Pickett’s ability to manage the offense against a Cowboys team pushing for playoff momentum.

Image: Imagn

Jalen Hurts

Jalen Hurts injury

Jalen Hurts Injury Update

Natasha Bose

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