Eagles rule out Jalen Hurts vs. Panthers after blood clot moves

The Philadelphia Eagles have ruled out Jalen Hurts for Sunday's game against the Carolina Panthers after a follow-up ultrasound showed movement in a small blood clot in his calf, according to a team statement.. The club is determining the appropriate treatment.

“Out of an abundance of caution, an ultrasound was performed on Saturday following the team’s flight to London and walkthrough. The ultrasound revealed a superficial blood clot. Our medical staff and doctors in London reviewed the results and concluded that activity and mobility were important and that Jalen could safely play. Doctors recommended a follow-up ultrasound within 72 hours of the game and the return flight to Philadelphia.

Jalen played without limitation in the game Sunday, received treatment on Monday and Tuesday, and practiced in full on Wednesday, as reflected in the practice report. Throughout our time in London and this week, we have remained in communication with the league office regarding the matter.

On Wednesday night, a follow-up ultrasound revealed movement in the small blood clot. Jalen will be out for Sunday’s game vs. the Panthers as we determine the appropriate course of treatment. His health and safety are our highest priority.”

The statement supplies an answer to the calf issue Hurts declined to explain in detail Wednesday. The Eagles say he first sought treatment October 8 after telling their medical staff he had been cleated during the October 4 game against the Rams. An ultrasound in London on Saturday found a superficial clot. After reviewing the results, team doctors and doctors in London concluded he could safely play against the Jaguars; he played without limitation Sunday.

Hurts received treatment Monday and Tuesday and practiced in full Wednesday. A follow-up scan Wednesday night then showed the clot had moved, prompting the decision to keep him out against Carolina. The Eagles say they have remained in contact with the league office and put Hurts' health and safety first. They have not announced a treatment plan or return date.

Rapoport says Tanner McKee is the quarterback moving forward while Hurts' medical situation is addressed. The change comes amid further uncertainty for Philadelphia's offense: Saquon Barkley and DeVonta Smith had both missed practice again Wednesday with hamstring injuries, as this desk reported earlier. Their availability for the Panthers game had not been settled in that report; Hurts' absence is now confirmed.