Jalen Hurts recently found himself in the spotlight, availing himself to waves of media scrutiny, especially when it came to discussing former New York Giants defensive coordinator Wink Martindale. This topic dominated the discussion, with five of the first seven questions during a media session revolving around Martindale.
Reflecting on last season, Hurts had every reason to delve into the defensive minds arrayed against him. The Eagles began with a promising 10-1 start but faltered towards the end, losing six of their final seven games. The season climaxed with a bitter wild card playoff loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, prompting introspection and growth.
Hurts has taken proactive steps to better understand the defenses he faces. He reached out to defensive brains like Martindale and the Eagles' current defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, looking to glean insights and strategies. In a concerted effort to cover all bases, Hurts called the former Giants' coordinator to understand exactly how New York game-planned against him.
"I was just trying to pick his brain, see what he saw in us, trying to get some tips on some things. I think it was more so for me trying to continue to pour into my cup in terms of knowledge, and I've had a lot of respect for what he's done," Hurts said. His inquisitiveness speaks volumes about his dedication to his craft and illustrates his respect for the formidable defenses he has encountered.
Building Defensive Knowledge
In achieving a fuller picture of his adversaries, Hurts hasn't limited his quest for knowledge to Martindale. He is also engaging with Vic Fangio to gain inside perspectives on defensive tactics. "I joked about the competitiveness between the two of us, but having those conversations with him and seeing what certain techniques defensive backs are playing and what his intentions are behind each play, what's he trying to take away, where's he vulnerable at," Hurts explained, delineating his thorough approach to studying and understanding the mechanics of defensive play.
Hurts' commitment to self-improvement and leadership radiates through his interactions and his drive to apply the knowledge he accumulates. "Sometimes I think people are only able to know what they understand. Sometimes people don't know what they don't know. But in that regard, I think where we are is you have reports and you have rumors and then you have reality. We're in reality right now," Hurts articulated. His words underscore a grounded and realistic mindset essential for progression.
Learning from the Past
Recalling their challenging stretch last season, Hurts pointed to the adversity faced and the ensuing learning opportunities. "We’ve had a lot of success against him, and I think that was one we were trying to make a run, make a push, and I wanted to pour into my cup of knowledge, pick his brain, and get some things." This proactive approach to overcoming obstacles marks Hurts' commitment to not just playing the game, but mastering it.
Hurts' rapport with Martindale included mutual respect and a frank exchange of strategic insights. "He's a very respectable person, actually a great person, a great coach and has a great mentality on how he goes about his business," he noted with admiration. These interactions, laden with respect and rigorous analysis, exemplify Hurts' approach to preparation.
Looking Ahead with Confidence
The Eagles' quarterback remains resolute in his quest for growth. “All of that is an eventual tool for me in my development and understanding where the boys are so I can play better football," he emphasized. Each conversation, each piece of advice, and each strategy discussed contributes to his evolving understanding of the game.
Reflecting on the team's journey, Hurts is introspective yet optimistic. "This team is one of those teams that's going to do that, especially with the things that we've been able to experience,” he shared, acknowledging the collective experiences and lessons that have shaped the team's current dynamics.
As the Eagles press forward, armed with a deeper understanding of their strengths and areas for improvement, Hurts remains at the forefront, paving the way with his commitment to knowledge, growth, and leadership. "It was a developing time, it was a time of development for us, and that's something we learned from," he concluded, hinting at a brighter horizon built on the lessons of the past.