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

ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith expressed hope that Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts will publicly share details regarding his condition once understood, aiming to help others. The comments followed the announcement that Hurts will miss the remainder of the 2026 NFL season after being diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis and bilateral pulmonary emboli. The joint statement from the Eagles and agent Nicole Lynn noted that Hurts is clinically stable and expected to make a full recovery, but he cannot play while on blood thinners.

The medical issue began as a superficial vein thrombosis in Hurts' left calf discovered in London before facing the Jacksonville Jaguars. Follow-up imaging in Philadelphia revealed the clot had moved to deep veins and into both lungs. Despite the condition, Hurts played against Jacksonville, reportedly after staying awake for roughly 36 consecutive hours on medical instructions, completing 21 of 40 passes in a 19-17 defeat.