How Jalen Hurts has become the most multidimensional QB in the league
Jalen Hurts' teammates love the way he plays. Even when the popular narrative surrounding Hurts was that he's just a running quarterback, those in his corner know what he's capable of. "He just has grit,” Jordan Mailata said. “His want-to, to get yards and make plays. I think that’s just why it’s hard to bring […]
Jalen Hurts' teammates love the way he plays.
Even when the popular narrative surrounding Hurts was that he's just a running quarterback, those in his corner know what he's capable of.
"He just has grit,” Jordan Mailata said. “His want-to, to get yards and make plays. I think that’s just why it’s hard to bring him down. Because he’s determined. When he makes his mind up, he’s probably going to do it.”
So, it comes as no surprise that — though Hurts is a leadingthrower of the football this season — he's also breaking ground with his legs.
According to ProFootballFocus, Hurts has 105 rushing yards after contact, which ranks 12th in the NFL among all players and first for quarterbacks. Here is the full-list breakdown:
Jalen Hurts: 105
Josh Allen: 45
Justin Fields: 38
Carson Wentz: 37
Daniel Jones: 35
Kyler Murray: 34
Lamar Jackson: 34
“He’s a strong guy,” DeVonta Smith said. “When he does run the ball, he’s explosive.”
Already this season we have seen Hurts explode on some breathtaking plays, like this one against the Minnesota Vikings on Monday night football.
With defenders draped all over him, Hurts found a way to make a play. That is what separates him from other quarterbacks in the league right now.
He may be an imperfect thrower, but he makes up for it on the ground. What is scary is that he is still getting better. The Eagles are merely scratching the surface of his ultimate potential.
Feature image via Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports.
