The Philadelphia Eagles are preparing to defend a Super Bowl run with incredible talent on both sides of the ball. However, not all reports have been positive with the offense missing star receiver DeVonta Smith. Most notable are struggles from Jalen Hurts, who has seen his numbers dip in training camp. This included a key interception in an end-of-game drill. It isn't what fans or the team want to see from the star quarterback.
With that said, camp and preseason reps simply cannot be overreacted to when the Eagles have seen what the quarterback is capable of when the game matters most.
Hurts is an established starter who has played in two Super Bowls, making these camp struggles a non-factor. A quarterback with his experience and ability is going to try things in camp he wouldn't in the regular season. Add in the freedom to attempt different aggressive throws without meaningful consequences, and camp reps for established quarterbacks simply cannot be overreacted to. The one actual concern for Philly is how soon Smith can return to the lineup and if the injury situation will in any way linger into the regular season.
Eagles Fans Shouldn't Be Alarmed by Jalen Hurts' Struggles
Eagles notes:
— Tim McManus (@Tim_McManus) July 31, 2025
The offense is missing DeVonta Smith, who has been sidelined the last 3 sessions with back tightness.
Jalen Hurts' efficiency has gone down following a hot start. Most notably, he sailed a throw during an end-of-game situation that was picked by Eli Ricks.
Even with Saquon Barkley and A.J. Brown, Smith is vital to the Philly offense and sets up so much. With this in mind, Smith's health should be the only concern from this report. Hurts will be fine and continue to be among the league's most underrated players when the season kicks off. Even coming off a Super Bowl victory, it seems pundits and fans are content ranking Hurts below far less accomplished players.
Hurt joins Joe Burrow and Tom Brady as the only starters in league history to beat Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes in a game that mattered. It is only these three quarterbacks who have gone toe-to-toe with a dynasty and walked away winners. Of this trio, only Brady and Hurts actually finished the job, winning a ring while knocking out the Chiefs. With this in mind, it is hard to stress or worry about camp numbers or reps when Hurts has proven the heights he can reach.
The Eagles have built a roster poised to defend their Super Bowl title and should remain heavy favorites in the NFC. It isn't just the offensive talent, but a great defense that helped set the tone for last year's playoff run. No question, Hurts deserves trust and has given zero legitimate reason for concern this early in the year.