Steinberg’s Perspective on Medical Responsibility
Legendary NFL agent Leigh Steinberg has commented on the handling of Jalen Hurts’ recent blood clot issue and speculated on its potential impact on the league and quarterback agents. Steinberg noted that he would have contacted team physicians to ensure proper care if a quarterback he represented had experienced a similar situation. He predicts that the situation involving Hurts will alert the league to the need for vigilance. Steinberg emphasized that only medical experts can determine if the Eagles provided appropriate care.
The term ‘blood clot’ sets off alarm bells for any agent. Immediate communication with medical personnel would be necessary.
Details of Jalen Hurts’ Condition
Hurts is expected to sit out the rest of the season after tests revealed he has deep vein thrombosis and bilateral pulmonary emboli—blood clots affecting both lungs. On October 25, the NFL and NFL Players Association jointly announced they are reviewing the case, prompted by the union’s call for an investigation.
The Role of Agents in Player Health
For Steinberg, this situation emphasizes the broader responsibilities of agents beyond contract negotiations. He stressed the importance of prioritizing player health, irrespective of the ongoing season pressures. Steinberg expressed confidence in Hurts’ agent, Nicole Lynn, asserting that his commentary should not suggest any failure on her part.
Eagles’ Medical Decisions and Controversy
Scrutiny has intensified over the decision to allow Hurts to play against Jacksonville in London on October 11 after an ultrasound identified a superficial clot. Hurts initially reported an injury on October 8 after playing against the Rams. He had a full practice and traveled to London, where another ultrasound was done on October 10. The medical team concluded that Hurts could play safely. Following his return to Philadelphia, however, a follow-up ultrasound on October 14 showed clot movement, leading to his placement on injured reserve by October 17.
Steinberg questioned whether Hurts should have played in London, stating it’s a matter for medical experts. Steinberg knows Eagles’ owner Jeffrey Lurie and GM Howie Roseman, believing they are committed to player health. He suggested that Hurts’ condition might have evolved despite proper care, with no evidence of mishandling.
NFL’s Response and Ongoing Investigations
The NFL maintained confidence in the Eagles’ medical team’s actions. Meanwhile, the NFLPA has demanded a comprehensive investigation, as reported by Front Office Sports on October 25. The league and the union are determining the investigation’s process, as it has yet to start officially.
Despite the seriousness of Hurts’ diagnosis, the Eagles and Lynn have stated he remains clinically stable with no significant limitations and should fully recover without long-term effects. Hurts is being treated with blood thinners, which preclude contact activities but do not prevent him from being around the team.
Implications for Football and Agent Responsibilities
Steinberg emphasized the incident would likely prompt greater caution throughout the league. He connected the responsibility to his extensive work on player brain health and concussions, which focuses on prevention and treatment. Steinberg sees safeguarding players’ health as a fiduciary duty.
The impact on the game is considerable. Steinberg noted the reliance on franchise quarterbacks, such as Hurts, with massive contracts, which poses a risk when a starter is incapacitated. Hurts signed a five-year, $255 million contract extension in 2023. In his absence, Philadelphia turns to Tanner McKee, a sixth-round draft pick from Stanford in 2023, marking a significant decrease in experience and talent. Another injury to a quarterback could further strain the Eagles’ roster.
Steinberg’s broader concern involves long-term health implications beyond this season, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding against severe consequences.