NFL

Philadelphia Eagles Opt Against Injured Reserve for Jalen Hurts Amid Blood Clot Diagnosis

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Oct 17, 2026, 17:32 IST

The Philadelphia Eagles are currently not planning to place quarterback Jalen Hurts on injured reserve despite his indefinite absence due to a superficial blood clot. The team is awaiting further medical guidance on his recovery.

Philadelphia Eagles Opt Against Injured Reserve for Jalen Hurts Amid Blood Clot Diagnosis

The Philadelphia Eagles have decided against placing quarterback Jalen Hurts on injured reserve at this time, even as the star signal-caller remains sidelined indefinitely. The organization is currently navigating the medical complexities surrounding a superficial blood clot discovered in the quarterback, with team officials confirming that a move to injured reserve—which would mandate a minimum four-week absence—has not been discussed.

According to reports, the team and the player are in the process of gathering additional medical opinions to determine the most effective treatment path. The Eagles have maintained that the health of their quarterback is the primary priority, and they intend to defer to the guidance of his medical team regarding his eventual return to the field. While the possibility of an injured reserve designation remains open should future medical evaluations necessitate it, the current focus is on managing the condition with the best available care.

Medical Outlook and Roster Adjustments

The treatment of blood clots typically involves the use of anticoagulants, or blood thinners, which prevent players from participating in contact sports. While medical experts unaffiliated with the team suggest that a standard recovery timeline for such cases could span approximately six weeks, there remains a possibility for shorter recovery windows depending on the severity and location of the clot. The Eagles noted that the clot had moved, a factor that often influences the necessity of blood-thinning medication.

In the absence of their starter, the Eagles are adjusting their roster to maintain depth. Tanner McKee is set to start in the upcoming game against the Carolina Panthers, with rookie quarterback Cole Payton elevated to the backup role. Furthermore, the team has signed Joe Milton from the Dallas Cowboys' practice squad, a move that requires him to remain on the active roster for at least three weeks under league regulations.

This development adds to a challenging period for the Philadelphia organization, which is already managing injuries to key offensive contributors. Running back Saquon Barkley, who is expected to return next week, has been ruled out for the Sunday matchup against Carolina. These personnel hurdles follow a tumultuous stretch for the team, which has recently navigated the retirement of offensive tackle Lane Johnson and the trade of center Cam Jurgens.