Hurts' Stellar Progress at Eagles Training Camp
Jalen Hurts has demonstrated formidable growth and resilience throughout the Philadelphia Eagles' training camp, culminating in an impressive finale. Despite a notable interception on the final day of the camp, the young quarterback's performance has garnered praise from both teammates and coaching staff.
For the first 15 practices, Hurts showed remarkable control, as the defense struggled to snag a takeaway from him. This streak was finally broken when veteran cornerback Darius Slay intercepted a pass and dashed 30 yards downfield. Hurts acknowledged the interception but reflected positively on the overall experience, noting it as the lone interception of the camp.
"He don’t like to talk to me when I pick him," remarked Slay, adding, "But it’s okay, I’ll give him a hug and stuff." His interception was a result of thoughtful gameplay. "Oh, I baited him. I know how to bait Hurts. I made him feel like he was gonna get a completion. I was like nah," he explained.
Despite the final day's slip, Hurts' performance was overwhelmingly positive. Head Coach Nick Sirianni commended the quarterback's progression, stating, "I just feel like he's had an outstanding, outstanding camp." He further lauded Hurts, noting, "I'm really excited about where he is, just in complete control of the offense, delivering accurate balls, protecting the football."
Hurts' improvements are particularly noteworthy given the significant changes in the Eagles' offensive scheme under new offensive coordinator Kellen Moore. Just two months ago, Hurts pointed out that 95% of the Eagles' offense was new. This overhaul posed challenges during minicamp, but Hurts managed to adapt and integrate the new strategies successfully.
Reflecting on his journey, Hurts said, "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.”
Physically, Hurts is also in a much better place compared to last season when he dealt with a series of injuries. "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 shared. His improved physical condition has been evident throughout the camp, further contributing to his standout performances.
The intense training and new offensive strategies have clearly paid off. Hurts' approach, preparation, and communication with teammates like A.J. Brown have shown a different, more refined version of him. Slay, observing Hurts’ transformation, commented, "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. I'm hoping it turns into that when it's real."
Last season, Hurts was plagued by turnovers, accumulating 20, including 15 interceptions and five lost fumbles. However, his performance in this training camp suggests a departure from those struggles. By frequently throwing across the middle, an area he hesitated with in previous seasons, Hurts displayed newfound confidence and precision.
Sirianni summed up the collective sentiment, saying, "Just what an unbelievable camp he's had. I'm really excited for his year." The head coach's optimism speaks volumes about the expectations placed on Hurts going into the regular season.
Should Hurts maintain this form, he is poised for a breakout year. His efforts in the training camp have laid a solid foundation, positioning him as a pivotal player for the Eagles. The energy and anticipation surrounding Hurts' potential provide a promising outlook for Philadelphia's upcoming season.