The Philadelphia Eagles are undefeated and are looking to improve as the season continues. Is it too early to insert Jalen Hurts into MVP consideration?
Being a professional athlete is difficult, especially when underperforming. Criticism is a sign of endearment in a city where brotherly love runs deep. High expectations of players come and go as seasons pass with the city’s athletes – except for Jalen Hurts.
Eagles fans are impressed with Jalen Hurts’ development
Quarterbacks have experienced a love-hate relationship with Philadelphia. It took a few seasons before Donovan McNabb won over the hearts of its residents. Perseverance assisted No. 5 throughout his career as an Eagle – as the journey of Hurts has begun.
In 2020, the Eagles exchanged a second-round pick for the talents of a dual-threat quarterback. Hopes of a versatile offense consumed the minds of fans throughout the area. An impressive collegiate career enticed Eagles fans – anxious to see their team return to glory. Doug Pederson and his staff had other plans.
Faith in Carson Wentz sidelined Hurts for his first season. A trade with the Colts presented No. 1 with his first chance at a starting role. In 2021, Nick Sirianni named Jalen the starter. A new role in the offense challenged Philadelphia’s gunslinger to improve each week – and Hurts welcomed it head-on. His 26 total touchdowns displayed the versatility fans were anxious to see. Innovations to the offense led Philadelphia to a playoff berth – a step towards building a promising future.
An early playoff exit fed Hurts more motivation – and it shows on the field. An efficient start to the new campaign has kept the Eagles undefeated heading into week four. Consecutive three-hundred-yard performances have made No. 1 the talk of the league. When the Eagles decide to run the football, giving the ball to Hurts is always an option. His 167 yards on the ground this season have resulted in three touchdowns – tying the total for his rookie year.
Can the Eagles depend on Hurts to remain consistent?
When analyst credit Philadelphia’s success so far, can they leave out their quarterback?
Jonathan Gannon and his defense also deserve credit for Philadelphia’s strong start. An impressive performance against the Minnesota Vikings sent a message to all watching. Philadelphia’s secondary shut down Justin Jefferson and held Minnesota’s offense to seven points. Consistency helped the Eagles find similar results the following week against the Commanders. Gannon’s defensive line sacked Wentz a total of nine times.
A combination of defense and offense has positioned the Eagles at the top of their division. Their 3-0 start is impressive, but the real test is remaining consistent. Upcoming games against the Jaguars, Cardinals, Cowboys, and Steelers will require Jalen Hurts to up his game.
The arrival of Jalen Hurts fed Philadelphia energy – his play this season has given the city hope. While franchises prepare to slow down Nick Siriani’s dual-threat quarterback, Hurts continues to focus on improving. Being a member of a Philadelphia club has its challenges, but Hurts is built to last.