The Philadelphia Eagles have had a rough start to the season. They have a record of 2-4 but are in second place in their division, tied with the Dallas Cowboys. Their two wins came at the beginning of the season. One against the Washington Commanders, and the other against the Tennessee Titans. Then, the team seemed to lose their composure, proceeding to go on a four-game losing streak.
Now, the season doesn’t look like it’ll get much better. Star quarterback and Super Bowl MVP, Jalen Hurts, is out for the season due to multiple blood clots. To ensure his health and safety, he will not play in another game this season. Hurts adds to a growing list of star players out for the season. So, what does Hurts’ absence mean for the Eagles? If the Eagles are to have a viable chance at making the playoffs, they might just need to look to utilize the little time left in the transfer window.
Photo Cred: CBS
The Eagles’ offense has struggled over these past four games, but the loss of Hurts will only add to that struggle. The Eagles have relied on Jalen Hurts and the passing game a lot so far. They’ve totaled 1,148 passing yards out of 1,533 total offensive yards, which accounts for roughly 75% of their offensive game. They’ve also passed for a total of nine out of 13 touchdowns. Hurts threw over 900 of those yards, averaging 6.1 yards, which will go down as a career low for Hurts.
He’s also contributed to the Eagles’ rushing game, attempting 23 runs and gaining 107 yards. He also scored one touchdown using his feet. Outside of his on-field presence, Hurts has maintained a captain status for six years. His presence will be missed in the Eagles’ offense. His versatility and ability to use his arm and his legs will hurt the Eagles’ game if they cannot find a long-term replacement for him. The Eagles backups include Tanner McKee and Cole Payton.
McKee was a late draft pick for the Eagles in 2024 and has not started in one game in his career. Payton doesn’t inspire much hope either. The rookie from North Dakota State hasn’t touched an NFL field, and unless McKee doesn’t do enough on the field, there’s doubt he’ll see the field this season.
The Eagles have the option to trade for a quarterback like the New York Giants. Their QB1, Jaxson Dart is out due to a major leg injury. The question remains if Nick Sirianni and their front office believe McKee can salvage the season they have left or if they want to make a run to the playoffs. Their division remains weak, with the Commanders winning only one game, the Cowboys struggling just as much, and the Giants seemingly on top with a record of 3-2-1.
Photo Cred: NBC
The Eagles’ answer cannot be to solely rely on the run game, no matter how strong it may be. They’ll become one of the most predictable and easiest-to-defend offenses in the league. They also risk wearing out their star running back, Saquon Barkley, if they attempt to rely too heavily on him. If the Eagles want to salvage their season, the answer might just lie outside of the organization. Their cap space is thin, and getting a good quarterback might just cost them the rest of their money.
