NFL Network reporters Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo have indicated that Philadelphia Eagles leadership does not intend to place quarterback Jalen Hurts on injured reserve, even as he remains out of action for an unspecified period while managing a superficial blood clot in his calf. Hurts remaining available stays on the table, with no commitment locking in a lengthier spell on the sidelines.
That development stops well short of indicating the Eagles' quarterback has been cleared to return to the field. Hurts has been ruled out of Philadelphia's Week 6 game against the Carolina Panthers, with the franchise holding him back while doctors determine the appropriate path forward for his recovery.
A placement on injured reserve would prevent a player from appearing on the active roster for a minimum of four games before any return is permitted. Holding Hurts off injured reserve for the time being leaves Philadelphia with flexibility as team staff monitor how his health develops. No timetable for a return should be inferred from that approach.
No schedule for Hurts's return has been put forward by the franchise, with his health situation taking precedence over all other considerations. Imaging conducted in the days after Philadelphia's October 12 matchup with Jacksonville detected movement within the small clot, the franchise disclosed. Based on that medical assessment, he was ruled unavailable for the game against Carolina.
A calf problem that traced back to a cleat injury during the October 4 defeat to the Los Angeles Rams prompted Hurts to seek medical attention four days later. Prior to the Eagles' fixture against Jacksonville in London, a scan identified the superficial blood clot. Medical staff were brought in for evaluation before the organisation cleared Hurts to take the field against Jacksonville.
A follow-up ultrasound carried out on October 14 showed the clot had shifted, though he had trained without restriction in the interim. A decision to keep him out of action was subsequently reached within the Eagles organisation. No timeline for his return has been shared, and details about the treatment he is receiving remain undisclosed.
Kenny Pickett is lined up to take the starting role for Philadelphia against Carolina, with Hurts ruled out of the contest. Quarterback Joe Milton joined the Eagles' roster after the team reached an agreement to bring him over from the Dallas Cowboys' practice squad. With a Week 6 matchup on the horizon, the roster adjustments reflect a need for additional depth at the quarterback position.
Sitting at 2-3 on the season, Philadelphia has lost each of its last three games. Head coach Nick Sirianni told reporters no timetable would be given for Hurts's return, with the coaching staff placing the quarterback's wellbeing above all other considerations.
