The NFL is open to investigating the Philadelphia Eagles’ management of Jalen Hurts’s blood clots following a request from the players’ union, stated commissioner Roger Goodell on Wednesday during a news conference at the conclusion of the NFL’s annual fall meeting. Goodell mentioned that Dr. Allen Sills, the league’s chief medical officer, has reviewed the procedures followed and acknowledged the union’s right to seek a review.
“Clearly, there was a thorough medical evaluation, and I believe our protocols were executed exceptionally well,” stated Goodell. “The protocols were adhered to. Our process ensures that, and our chief medical officer has confirmed this, so we are confident that the protocols were properly implemented.”
Defending the Eagles’ medical staff, Sills expressed strong support on Tuesday. The NFL reported that officials communicated with team doctors, trainers, and the Cleveland Clinic in London. League executive vice-president Jeff Miller disputed claims that Hurts was awake for over 30 hours before playing against Jacksonville on October 11, clarifying that the quarterback returned to the hotel and slept for approximately seven to eight hours.
Hurts, who is currently on injured reserve and expected to miss the remainder of the season, developed a blood clot in his left calf that moved to his lungs. The Eagles and agent Nicole Lynn revealed on Monday that Hurts was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis and bilateral pulmonary emboli. His treatment regimen includes blood thinners, preventing his participation in any football activities until he is off the medication.
Speaking on Hurts’s health, Goodell minimized the potential impact of international travel on the situation, emphasizing that the priority is Jalen’s well-being and future. Goodell expressed concern for Hurts’s health and welfare, highlighting the importance of following the established protocols.
Sills emphasized on Tuesday that the decision to permit a person with a blood clot to travel by air depends on various factors, such as the clot’s location and the patient’s medical history.
U.S. Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester, D-Del., addressed a letter to Goodell inquiring about the handling of the situation and requesting a briefing for her office and members of the committee on health, education, labor, and pensions. Blunt Rochester shared her personal experience of her husband’s passing due to complications from a sports-related injury involving blood clots, expressing relief that Hurts’s situation did not end tragically and calling on the NFL to use its influence to prevent similar incidents.
Hurts, a seasoned quarterback in his fifth season with Philadelphia, previously earned the Super Bowl MVP title when the Eagles secured victory two years ago.
