The Philadelphia Eagles will be without quarterback Jalen Hurts against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday after follow-up testing found movement in a superficial blood clot in his calf.
The team said Hurts first sought treatment after practice on Thursday, October 8, telling medical personnel he had been stepped on during Philadelphia’s October 4 game against the Rams. He had practiced fully on Wednesday and Thursday before that first treatment, then received additional treatment Friday, practiced without restriction and was added to the injury report.
An ultrasound conducted Saturday after the Eagles arrived in London and completed their walkthrough identified the small superficial clot. Doctors and the club’s medical staff determined at that time that Hurts could play safely, with activity and movement viewed as important. They advised another ultrasound within 72 hours of the game and before the team’s return flight to Philadelphia.
Hurts then played without restrictions on Sunday, underwent treatment Monday and Tuesday, and was a full participant in Wednesday’s practice. But a Wednesday night scan showed that the clot had moved, prompting the Eagles to rule him out for the Panthers matchup while doctors determine the appropriate treatment plan.
“His health and safety are our highest priority,” the club said, adding that it has remained in contact with the NFL office throughout the process.
Tanner McKee is listed as Philadelphia’s backup quarterback following the recent release of Andy Dalton. The Eagles enter the week on a three-game losing streak and at 2-3, while also dealing with Lane Johnson’s retirement and recent injuries involving Saquon Barkley and DeVonta Smith.
Before being sidelined, Hurts had completed 57.8 percent of his passes for 933 yards, eight touchdowns and three interceptions through five games.
