Jalen Hurts Reflects on Training Camp and Looks Ahead to Promising Season
The Philadelphia Eagles' training camp provided an insightful window into Jalen Hurts' evolving journey as the team's quarterback. Showcasing significant growth and resilience, Hurts impressed many throughout the camp, despite a notable interception on the final day.
For the first 15 practices, Hurts had managed to keep the defense at bay, with not a single interception recorded. This streak came to an end when Darius Slay intercepted a pass from Hurts, sprinting 30 yards downfield. Reflecting on the event, Hurts quipped, “I told him, ‘About time.’” This light-hearted exchange underscores the mutual respect and camaraderie within the team.
Despite the interception, Hurts' performance throughout the camp received high praise from head coach Nick Sirianni. “I just feel like he's had an outstanding, outstanding camp,” Sirianni remarked. “I'm really excited about where he is, just in complete control of the offense, delivering accurate balls, protecting the football. Just what an unbelievable camp he’s had. I'm really excited for his year.”
Hurts’ statistics from the 2023 season reveal some areas of concern, with 20 turnovers, including 15 interceptions and five lost fumbles. This made his clean streak during the bulk of the training camp even more noteworthy. By avoiding interceptions in 15 straight practices, Hurts demonstrated an improvement in handling pressure and making strategic decisions.
One of the significant changes in Hurts' game has been his increased propensity to throw across the middle of the field, a marked difference from the previous year. This adjustment is part of the broader offensive scheme changes implemented by new offensive coordinator Kellen Moore. Hurts indicated the extent of these changes, noting, “95% of the Eagles offense under offensive coordinator Kellen Moore was new.”
Adapting to these new strategies was not without challenges. Hurts faced difficulties in minicamp, navigating through the period of offensive changes. Yet, his dedication and ability to assimilate these new strategies have been commendable.
“The consistency. The way he prepares. The way that him, A.J., and all the guys communicate and try to get on time, I just see a different version of him this year,” Darius Slay observed, reflecting on Hurts’ transformation during the camp. “I'm hoping it turns into that when it's real.”
Hurts also acknowledged that he is in a better physical place compared to last season, where he grappled with various injuries. “I think I’m in a better place physically,” Hurts shared. “Obviously, I had some nicks there throughout the year that I told you guys not to ask me about. But you deal with those things.” He added, “I think all of those things have made me better. They've made me reevaluate some things. They've allowed me to reassess. And I've been able to saturate myself in the right things.”
The overall takeaway from the Eagles' training camp is overwhelmingly positive for Hurts. His ability to navigate through new offensive schemes while maintaining composure and effectively communicating with his teammates has positioned him as a pivotal player. Should this form persist into the regular season, Hurts is poised for a breakout year, cementing his role as a key asset for the Philadelphia Eagles.