Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts faces 45‑day to three‑month layoff after blood clot diagnosis

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts was ruled out of the upcoming game against the Carolina Panthers on October 16, 2026 after doctors diagnosed a superficial blood clot in his calf.

The medical outlook, shared by hematologist Dr. Jordan Schaefer of the University of Michigan and sports‑medicine surgeon Dr. Ryan Schreiter of Temple University, indicates a recovery window of roughly 45 days to three months if treatment involves oral anticoagulants.

"I think this is going to be the downer … it’s usually 45 days to potentially three months to make sure that that blood clot goes away," Dr. Schreiter said during a radio interview. He added that the use of blood‑thinners complicates a return in a contact sport because of heightened bleeding risk.

Dr. Schaefer emphasized the need for close monitoring, noting that "it’s not like a one‑time visit and then you’re done. It’s often reassessment in how you’re feeling and a physical of how the leg looks." The doctors will continue ultrasound examinations and evaluate swelling, redness, and any changes in clot size.

Team officials confirmed that Hurts first reported calf discomfort on October 8, after being cleated during the Week 4 loss to the Rams. A follow‑up ultrasound on Wednesday revealed "movement in the small blood clot," prompting the Eagles to sit Hurts out against the Panthers.

With Hurts sidelined, the Eagles plan to start backup quarterback Tanner McKee. McKee, a sixth‑round pick from the 2023 draft, has appeared in six NFL games and started each of the Eagles' Week 18 contests last season, accumulating 597 passing yards, five touchdowns and one interception.

The timing of Hurts’ absence arrives at a critical juncture in the Eagles’ season. A prolonged recovery could force the team to rely on McKee for an extended stretch, potentially influencing playoff positioning. Management has indicated that they will continue to coordinate with league medical staff and adjust game‑day plans as more information becomes available.

Hurts’ next evaluation is expected within the next week, and the Eagles will announce further updates as the clot’s status and treatment response become clearer.