The NFL season opener couldn’t script a bigger storyline than this: the reigning Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles hosting their bitter rivals, the Dallas Cowboys, in a primetime clash. While anticipation has been building for the marquee matchup, one question has dominated headlines all week—will quarterback Jalen Hurts be healthy enough to lead the Eagles on Thursday night?
Jalen Hurts cleared to start in week 1
Eagles fans can exhale. Jalen Hurts has been cleared and will start against the Cowboys in tonight’s NFC East showdown. The star quarterback was a full participant in practice throughout the week and was notably absent from Philadelphia’s final injury report. Entering his sixth NFL season, Hurts is reportedly healthier than he has been in years, giving the Eagles a major boost as they begin their title defense.
Philadelphia’s game status report earlier this week listed only backup quarterback Tanner McKee as unavailable due to a thumb injury. Meanwhile, Pro Bowl guard Landon Dickerson and defensive tackle Jalen Carter, who picked up minor knocks, were both cleared for full action. That leaves Hurts in complete control of the huddle with no restrictions heading into the high-stakes opener.
Eagles vs. Cowboys: A rivalry renewed
Jalen Hurts will be tested immediately against a Dallas defense that is adjusting to life without Micah Parsons. The Cowboys have welcomed back cornerback Trevon Diggs and rookie left tackle Tyler Guyton, both of whom logged full practices ahead of the season opener. Still, the absence of Parsons removes one of the NFL’s most feared pass rushers—something Hurts and the Eagles offense will look to exploit.
Head coach Nick Sirianni emphasized Hurts’ versatility, saying: “What I admire about him is his selflessness of doing anything we need to do to win.” That adaptability, combined with the quarterback’s improved command of the offense, will be crucial against Dallas.
Jalen Hurts’ championship mindset
Despite adding a Super Bowl MVP award to his resume, Jalen Hurts’ hunger for success remains stronger than ever. Teammates including Saquon Barkley and Jordan Mailata have described him as sharper and more confident since the Eagles’ title run.
Hurts himself has acknowledged that he carries the lessons of both triumph and defeat with him. He revealed that his phone wallpaper is still a photo of him walking off the field after Super Bowl 57’s heartbreaking loss, a constant reminder of unfinished business. Even after lifting the Lombardi Trophy, he admitted to reporters that he never wore his Super Bowl 59 ring during the offseason: “I was focused on the new season.”
What it means for the Eagles tonight
With Jalen Hurts fully fit and surrounded by a roster loaded with talent, the Eagles enter the opener as favorites to start strong in their bid to repeat as champions. His ability to extend plays, punish defenses with precision passing, and serve as a leader on and off the field will define tonight’s clash against the Cowboys.
The question of his health is now answered. Hurts will be under center when the Eagles take the first snap at Lincoln Financial Field.