6 Eagles on Thin Ice Heading Into the Playoffs

2. Jalen Hurts, Quarterback

When the Eagles selected Jalen Hurts in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, it was a huge surprise. They still had Carson Wentz under contract but thought Hurts could be developed into a starter down the road. No one expected that to happen in 2021, but that's how it unfolded as Wentz was out and the former Heisman Trophy winner was in.

Hurts played well in 2021 but took off in 2022 when the Eagles added A.J. Brown. He led them to a 14-1 record when he was under center while throwing for 3,701 yards with 22 touchdowns through the air and 13 on the ground. He was also excellent at protecting the ball, throwing just six picks.

The Eagles rode his hot hand to the Super Bowl but the Chiefs pulled off the win in a close contest. Still, Hurts proved he was the guy and was paid handsomely — signing a five-year, $255 million deal in the offseason.

This year, however, he hasn't been nearly as good. Hurts has solid numbers overall with 3,858 yards passing and 23 touchdowns through the air. He even ran for 605 yards with 15 more touchdowns, although many of those came on the 'Brotherly Shove' which could be under fire in the offseason. While all of that was impressive, he had major issues protecting the ball.

Hurts fumbled it nine times but what was really alarming was his 15 interceptions. For some perspective, he had 15 in 2021 and 2022 combined. In his latest outing, he threw for just 55 yards on 7-of-16 attempts. He did injure his hand by hitting a helmet while attempting a pass, which will only make things tougher on him in the playoffs.

There's no way he's going anywhere with his contract but it's hard not to look at Hurts right now and think he's on thin ice. He needs to get things turned around, or it will be a long offseason.