Former Tennessee Vols defender made a tackle in the NFL playoffs that could have a major impact on the NFC Championship Game
One of the biggest stories heading into next weekend's NFC Conference Championship Game between the Washington Commanders and the Philadelphia Eagles will be the status of Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts' knee. Hurts injured his knee on Sunday in Philadelphia's win against the Los Angeles Rams in the divisional round of the playoffs. The injury occurred […]
One of the biggest stories heading into next weekend's NFC Conference Championship Game between the Washington Commanders and the Philadelphia Eagles will be the status of Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts' knee.
Hurts injured his knee on Sunday in Philadelphia's win against the Los Angeles Rams in the divisional round of the playoffs.
The injury occurred when Hurts was tackled by Rams safety Jaylen McCollough.
McCollough, a former Tennessee Vols defensive back who is in his rookie season, tackled Hurts in the third quarter. The tackle twisted Hurts' knee and briefly forced the Pro Bowl quarterback from the game.
Hurts returned to the game after a trip to the injury tent.
After the game, Hurts was asked about the health of his knee and his status for the NFC Championship Game. He told reporters that he fully expects to play against the Commanders next weekend, though it's unclear if he'll be limited (or at risk of further injuring his knee).
There wasn't much McCollough could do in that situation. He was clearly trying to tackle Hurts for a loss, but because the Philadelphia quarterback is so dynamic, McCollough had to do whatever he could to make the play. Unfortunately for Hurts, it ended with an awkward landing that injured his knee.
If Hurts isn't at full strength against the Commanders because of his knee, it could drastically alter how that that game is played. McCollough's tackle that injured Hurts, though obviously unintentional, could end up giving Washington a huge advantage against Philadelphia.
After all, defending the Eagles' run game is much easier when you don't have to account for Hurts and running back Saquon Barkley.
We'll see as the week progresses just how limited Hurts will be against the Commanders.
