Jalen Hurts doesn’t care what you think of his stats: ‘I don’t play for numbers.’
His performance this season has raised eyebrows, yet a closer examination reveals a different story. Despite the perception of a disappointing year, Hurts has shown resilience and adaptability on the field.
Over 15 games, the Philadelphia Eagles quarterback recorded 2,903 passing yards, 18 touchdowns, and five interceptions, while also contributing 630 rushing yards and 14 rushing touchdowns. For a rookie, these numbers might be acceptable, but they also mirror his first full season as a starter in 2021.
Earlier this year, A.J. Brown pointed out that the Eagles’ biggest issue was “passing,” a statement that many found hard to dispute. However, Hurts demonstrated his capabilities as a passer against the Pittsburgh Steelers, completing 25 of 32 passes for 290 yards and two touchdowns.
Following that game, Hurts stated, “Just because we don’t doesn’t mean we can’t,” showcasing his confidence and belief in the team’s potential.
During the NFC Championship Game, he completed 20 of 28 passes for 246 yards and one touchdown, in addition to three rushing touchdowns. When asked about the effectiveness of the passing game, Hurts emphasized the importance of focusing on winning rather than statistics.
“I don’t play the game for stats,” he explained. “Success is defined by that particular individual, and it’s all relative to the person. What I define it as is: winning. So the number one goal is always to come out here and win.”
Hurts’ perspective on numbers shifted through experiences of loss. “Failure has to be used as a source of pain to take that next step,” he explained, highlighting his commitment to learning and growth.
A significant factor impacting Hurts’ statistics is the emergence of Saquon Barkley, who amassed 2,005 rushing yards, 278 receiving yards, and 15 total touchdowns. Barkley has become a pivotal player in the Eagles’ offense, even entering the MVP conversation.
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Barkley’s success raises questions about Hurts’ role. Does he need a strong supporting cast to excel? Early in the season, when the Eagles were 2-2, Hurts struggled with seven turnovers. However, he improved significantly, committing only three turnovers from Week 3 through the NFC Championship.
Critics often suggest that the Eagles’ expectations were too high for Hurts, especially given his $225 million contract. Head coach Nick Sirianni dismisses this notion, asserting, “He just wins. That’s kind of how I feel.”
Comparisons with Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills are inevitable. Both quarterbacks faced scrutiny this season despite leading their teams to impressive records. Allen’s performance was praised for elevating lesser-known players, while Hurts’ success is often overshadowed by the talent around him.
However, Hurts finds himself in the Super Bowl, a feat Allen could not achieve. Sirianni pointed out that every successful quarterback has had great players supporting them, emphasizing that winning is the ultimate goal.
Statistically, Hurts has excelled in certain metrics, achieving .12 expected points added per dropback, the highest of his career. While not on par with Allen or Lamar Jackson, Hurts’ performance has surpassed that of Patrick Mahomes in this regard.
This season, Hurts also recorded 52.1 expected points added, marking the second-best performance of his career. His completion percentage over expected (6.6%) and success percentage (48.6) are also career highs. Notably, his average of 24 pass attempts per game is the lowest since his rookie year.
While this season may not be his most prolific, it stands out as his most efficient. Sirianni praised Hurts, stating, “The guy has been clutch.”
As the Eagles prepare for Super Bowl LIX, they are tied with the Chiefs for the most wins in the NFL this season, with 17 victories. Hurts may not throw for 300 yards or three touchdowns in the upcoming game, but he will continue to do whatever it takes to secure victory, regardless of outside opinions.
