The Philadelphia Eagles have officially listed quarterback Jalen Hurts as doubtful for Sunday’s game against the New Orleans Saints. However, NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reports that Hurts is “pushing to play.”
According to Pelissero, Hurts has made “significant strides” in his recovery from a sprained shoulder suffered in the Eagles’ Week 15 victory over the Chicago Bears and, after practicing several times this week, has yet to be ruled out.
On Friday, Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni noted that Hurts had a good practice on Thursday but said the team hasn’t “decided anything yet” regarding whether or not he’ll suit up against New Orleans.
At 13-2, the Eagles are one win away from clinching the No. 1 seed in the NFC, and Philly could use Hurts on the field Sunday. But, as Sirianni pointed out, Hurts’ health is the primary concern.
Dallas Goedert, the Eagles’ starting tight end, told reporters that he wasn’t sure if anyone knew if Hurts would play. But Goedert was impressed “watching the ball come off his fingers,” adding that Hurts “looks good.”
If Hurts can’t go against the Saints, the Eagles will turn to backup Gardner Minshew again. Minshew started for the Eagles last week against the Dallas Cowboys on Christmas Eve, finishing 24-of-40 for 355 yards and a touchdown. However, three turnovers by Minshew — two interceptions and a fumble — proved costly in the Eagles’ 40-34 loss to Dallas.
Minshew said he’s “ready to go” on Sunday if need be, but when asked by reporters if he’ll get the start against the Saints, he responded, “What did coach say?”
While the Eagles have been mum on Hurts’ status, it’s safe to say he won’t be on the field against the Saints. And it’s likely the smart move. The NFC’s top seed is still up for grabs, but if the Eagles can’t beat one of its two remaining opponents, the Saints and New York Giants, without Hurts, they don’t deserve the top spot in the conference anyway.
