Entering his fourth year as a professional football player, Jalen Hurts is poised to build upon his MVP-caliber performance in 2022.
Under the guidance of Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni and offensive coordinator Brian Johnson, who has known Hurts since childhood, the talented quarterback is not only preparing to play in a familiar system but also leveraging the insights gained from defenders' reactions to plays and strategic adjustments. The Eagles are determined to enhance their attention to detail and execution, and Hurts' ability to read and react to the defense will be a crucial element in their pursuit of success.
It is important to note that Hurts' improvement as a passer should not be solely measured by highlight-reel plays. Last season, the Eagles witnessed firsthand the power of efficiency in driving a team towards a Super Bowl run.
Hurts' passing skills have steadily and significantly improved year after year. His passer rating jumped from 77.6 as a rookie to 87.2 in 2021 and further rose to an impressive 101.5 last year. He completed 66.5% of his pass attempts in the previous season, a significant improvement compared to his earlier campaigns. Additionally, Hurts achieved a career-best 1.3% interception rate, which ranked among the best in the NFL. It is worth mentioning his remarkable 13 rushing touchdowns as well.
During the game, with the score tied at 7, Hurts threw a 40-yard touchdown pass to his teammate. Unfortunately, the touchdown was reversed due to a technicality. Undeterred, Hurts remained confident and called the same play again, instructing his teammate to execute it flawlessly. This display of resilience and trust in his teammates showcases Hurts' unwavering motivation for ultimate consistency.
The upcoming season will undoubtedly bring heightened pressure for Hurts and the Eagles. As the team transitions from being underdogs to favorites in the NFC, every opponent will be eager to take them down. The pressure may affect a quarterback's ability to think quickly and clearly, but based on his performance in the Super Bowl, Eagles fans can rest assured that Hurts is up to the challenge.
In that game, Hurts displayed his versatility and skill, completing 27-of-38 attempts for 304 yards and a touchdown, without throwing any interceptions. He also contributed 70 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns. Now, Hurts aims to maintain that high level of play, both physically and mentally, throughout the upcoming season.
"There's enough talent around [Hurts], and he has enough talent to make spectacular plays anytime he steps on the field," said Brian Johnson. "But the quest for ultimate consistency lies in making routine plays consistently. After three years in the system, he understands the answers and can anticipate the problems within certain plays."
The sources of information that Hurts is processing are converging, merging his film study into a cohesive whole. His growth and understanding of the game are evident, to the point where his dual computer screens may soon appear as one, with an extended monitor.
Jalen Hurts is undoubtedly a rising star in the world of football. With his exceptional skills, unwavering confidence, and dedication to consistency, he is on the verge of greatness. As the 2023 season approaches, all eyes will be on Hurts as he leads the Philadelphia Eagles to new heights.
