Nick Sirianni Hints At Starting Quarterback For Week 17 Amid Jalen Hurts Injury

12/27/2024 12:05 PM

If the Philadelphia Eagles are going to defeat the Dallas Cowboys this Sunday, they'll most likely have to do it without Pro Bowl quarterback Jalen Hurts.

Hurts suffered a concussion last weekend against the Washington Commanders. He has not practiced in any capacity this week, a clear sign that he's not ready to return to the field. Speaking to reporters Friday morning, Eagles coach Nick Sirianni provided an update on his starting quarterback. He revealed that Hurts remains in concussion protocol. 

"It's going to be tough for him to make it," Sirianni told reporters 

Barring a miraculous turnaround from Hurts, the Eagles are expected to start Kenny Pickett at quarterback. The former first-round pick hasn't started in a game in over a calendar year. As you'd expect, he's amped up about the possibility of starting this Sunday against the Cowboys. 

"It's a big opportunity," Pickett said. "Been working hard to stay ready. Felt like I was in a good position last game with my preparation. Now having a week to practice, I'll feel even better going into the stadium. I'm excited. Just want to get the win."

Last week, Pickett completed 14-of-24 pass attempts for 143 yards with a touchdown and an interception. It wasn't a bad showing for Philadelphia's backup quarterback. 

Obviously, the Eagles will need Hurts healthy if they're going to make a postseason run. For now though, Pickett should be able to hold down the fort. 

"I just think he's been great for the room and a great addition to the room," Sirianni said of Pickett. "I just feel like he's treated it from day one as, how does he get better every day? Not worrying about the circumstances that he's in, but how does he get better every day? I've seen improvement from the moment he stepped in here." 

Kickoff for the Cowboys-Eagles game is at 1 p.m. ET.

Related: Eagles Get Bad News On Jalen Hurts On Thursday Afternoon