Jalen Hurts Blood Clots: Eagles QB Out for Season With DVT and Lung Clots Explained
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts is expected to miss the remainder of the 2026 NFL season after medical evaluations revealed he developed deep vein thrombosis and bilateral pulmonary emboli following an initial calf injury, ESPN reported.
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Key Clinical Takeaways:
- Jalen Hurts was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis and bilateral pulmonary emboli, requiring treatment involving blood thinners that is expected to sideline him for at least three months.
- The condition emerged after a superficial blood clot was discovered in London via ultrasound prior to the team’s Week 5 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Hurts Sustains Calf Injury Before London Diagnosis
The sequence of events began on October 4, when Hurts sustained a calf injury after taking a cleat to the area during a game against the Los Angeles Rams. Following the team’s travel to London ahead of their Week 5 contest against the Jacksonville Jaguars, an ultrasound performed on Saturday revealed a left calf superficial vein thrombosis. Ian Rapoport reported that Hurts remained in the hospital until 4 a.m. on the day of the London game and did not sleep as a precaution. In a released statement, the Eagles noted that medical staff and local doctors reviewed the findings and concluded that activity and mobility were important, determining that Hurts could safely play provided a follow-up ultrasound occurred within 72 hours of the game and return flight.
Progression to Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Emboli
Hurts played all 62 offensive snaps in the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. However, a follow-up ultrasound performed on Wednesday evening after returning to Philadelphia showed that the blood clot had moved, prompting the team to rule him out of the Week 6 game against the Carolina Panthers and place him on injured reserve, ESPN reported. Subsequent testing confirmed the condition had advanced to deep vein thrombosis alongside bilateral pulmonary emboli, meaning a blood clot had traveled from his leg to his lungs. Dr. Jordan K. Schaefer, an associate professor of internal medicine at the University of Michigan specializing in disorders of hemostasis and thrombosis who has not treated Hurts and is not involved with the Eagles, explained that approximately one in four patients presenting with superficial vein thrombosis will also exhibit a deep vein thrombosis. Schaefer noted that while superficial clots are located closer to the skin, clinicians monitor their size and proximity to the deep vein system to gauge the risk of systemic migration.
Blood Thinners Sideline Hurts for Three Months
The treatment involving blood thinners is expected to sideline Hurts for at least three months, according to ESPN. Nicole Lynn, Hurts’ agent, and the Eagles released a joint statement Monday detailing that Hurts is clinically stable with no significant functional limitations. The treatment strictly mandates blood thinners and prohibits participation in any contact activities or football duties while undergoing therapy. The Eagles and Lynn expect the quarterback to make a full recovery.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational and scientific communication purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition, diagnosis, or treatment plan.
