Stephen A. Smith reveals somber ‘hope’ for Eagles’ Jalen Hurts after scary blood clot diagnosis

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts will miss the remainder of the 2026 NFL season after doctors diagnosed him with deep vein thrombosis and bilateral pulmonary emboli, according to a joint statement from the Eagles and his agent, Nicole Lynn. The 27-year-old is clinically stable, and his medical team expects him to make a full recovery, but cannot participate in football activities while taking blood thinners.

After the announcement, ESPN's Stephen A. Smith expressed hope that Hurts will be willing to be open with how the diagnosis came about, per a post on X by ClutchPoints.

"I hope that at some point in time, once he discovers how this happened, he's open and forthcoming about it so many other people can be helped," he said.

The diagnosis developed from an issue initially identified in Hurts' left calf before Philadelphia's recent game against the Jacksonville Jaguars in London. An ultrasound performed after the Eagles arrived in London revealed a superficial vein thrombosis. Doctors subsequently identified movement in the clot during a follow-up ultrasound in Philadelphia, and further medical evaluations revealed deep vein thrombosis and blood clots affecting both lungs.

Hurts played against Jacksonville on Sunday, completing 21 of 40 passes for 220 yards and one touchdown in a 19-17 loss. According to NFL Insider Tom Pelissero, he had been awake for approximately 36 consecutive hours before the matchup, per Yahoo Sports. Insider John Clark later reported that doctors had instructed Hurts not to sleep. It is currently unclear when Hurts might be cleared to participate in football again.

Hurts had recorded 933 passing yards, eight touchdown passes and three interceptions through five games in the 2026 season. He has led Philadelphia to two Super Bowl appearances and earned Super Bowl MVP honors when the Eagles defeated the Kansas City Chiefs fin Super Bowl LIX.