The Philadelphia Eagles have placed quarterback Jalen Hurts on injured reserve after he was diagnosed with a superficial blood clot. Hurts will now miss a minimum of four games.
The Eagles released a statement Thursday about the medical condition of their quarterback in announcing his looming absence, saying Hurts had been receiving treatment for nearly a week and even flew to and from London with it.
Hurts played in the team’s London game against the Jacksonville Jaguars and practiced in full on Wednesday, one day before the team announced he would not play Sunday.
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“On Thursday, October 8th, Jalen visited the training room after practice requesting treatment for his calf. He informed the medical staff he had been cleated during the (Los Angeles) Rams game on October 4th. This was his first treatment session for the calf injury following the game, after having practiced in full both Wednesday and Thursday. On Friday, Jalen received treatment, practiced in full, and was added to the practice report,” the team said in its statement earlier this week.
“Out of an abundance of caution, an ultrasound was performed on Saturday following the team’s flight to London and walkthrough. The ultrasound revealed a superficial blood clot. Our medical staff and doctors in London reviewed the results and concluded that activity and mobility were important and that Jalen could safely play. Doctors recommended a follow-up ultrasound within 72 hours of the game and the return flight to Philadelphia.
“Jalen played without limitation in the game Sunday, received treatment on Monday and Tuesday, and practiced in full on Wednesday, as reflected in the practice report. Throughout our time in London and this week, we have remained in communication with the league office regarding the matter.
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“On Wednesday night, a follow-up ultrasound revealed movement in the small blood clot. Jalen will be out for Sunday’s game vs. the (Carolina) Panthers as we determine the appropriate course of treatment. His health and safety are our highest priority.”
Hurts will miss games against the Panthers and each of the Eagles’ three NFC East rivals. He will be eligible to return in Week 11 against the Pittsburgh Steelers (the Birds have a Week 10 bye, which is when Hurts would initially be able to come back).
Blood clots can be dangerous because they may block blood flow to vital organs, causing a pulmonary embolism, stroke or heart attack. They can also damage tissue or be fatal if they form or travel without prompt treatment.
Tanner McKee, a third-year veteran, is Philadelphia’s backup and is now in line to start against the Panthers. McKee has started two games in his career and the team has lost one and won the other.
The struggling Eagles have already been without DeVonta Smith and Saquon Barkley.
OutKick’s Armando Salguero contributed to this report.