Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts has been ruled out for Sunday's Week 6 matchup against the Carolina Panthers after a follow-up ultrasound revealed movement in a superficial blood clot in his calf.
According to an official statement from the Eagles, Hurts initially injured his calf when he was cleated during Philadelphia's October 4 game against the Los Angeles Rams.
Hurts first sought treatment Thursday, October 8, after practicing Wednesday and Thursday fully. He received additional treatment Friday and was added to the injury report despite another full practice.
An ultrasound performed Saturday after the team arrived in London revealed a superficial blood clot. After reviewing the results, team doctors determined that Hurts could safely play, with activity and mobility considered important.
Hurts played without limitations Sunday and received treatment Monday and Tuesday before practicing fully on Wednesday.
However, Wednesday night's follow-up ultrasound showed movement in the clot, prompting the Eagles to rule him out while determining the appropriate treatment.
"Jalen will be out for Sunday's game vs. the Panthers as we determine the appropriate course of treatment," the Eagles said. "His health and safety are our highest priority."
Pro Football Doc Injury Analysis: How Long Could Jalen Hurts Be Out?
According to Pro Football Doc, Dr. David Chao, Hurts' superficial blood clot is different from deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a potentially more dangerous condition involving a clot in a deeper vein.
Chao explained that superficial blood clots can progress into deeper veins, making further evaluation important. The Eagles must determine whether the clot resulted from the initial cleat injury, prolonged inactivity during travel or another underlying issue.
A major factor in Hurts' return timeline will be whether he requires anticoagulants, commonly known as blood thinners. Chao noted that playing football while taking these medications creates a significant bleeding risk, particularly with head injuries.
Chao expects Hurts to miss multiple weeks, although the timeline could extend significantly if anticoagulation or additional treatment is necessary.
The best-case scenario would involve no further clot progression, no need for blood thinners and a return as soon as Week 7. However, Chao does not consider that the most likely outcome.
If long-term anticoagulation is required, the absence could potentially extend through the remainder of the season.
Chao emphasized that the Eagles appear to have followed appropriate medical procedures and that Hurts' health and safety must remain the priority.
Tanner McKee to Start Amid Eagles Offensive Injuries
Tanner McKee will start against the Panthers in Hurts' absence, taking over an Eagles offense already dealing with several significant injuries.
Running back Saquon Barkley and wide receiver DeVonta Smith have both missed time with hamstring injuries and did not practice Wednesday ahead of Week 6.
Philadelphia's offensive line has also undergone major changes. Lane Johnson retired, Cam Jurgens was traded to Baltimore and Landon Dickerson has been on injured reserve with a knee injury. Dickerson returned to practice Wednesday after the Eagles opened his 21-day practice window.
The injuries and personnel changes leave McKee facing additional challenges as he prepares to lead Philadelphia's offense against Carolina.




