Eagles Offense Struggles: What's Wrong with Jalen Hurts?

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From Outspoken With Dan Sileo

Second-Half Struggles Expose Problems With the Eagles’ Offense

The Eagles produced 84 total yards in the second half against the Jags after managing 93 second-half yards the previous week. They scored three points in one of those games and none in the other. Going back to Chicago, they also scored no points in the second half. At one point, the offense went 17 straight third downs without converting for a first down.

While the team has a first-time play caller and the personnel is not what it once was with AJ Brown and Devonte Smith, the offensive approach still needs to change. The Eagles cannot continue doing the same things with quarterback Jalen Hurts and expect better results.

Hurts tends to hold the ball, which must be considered when designing protections and giving receivers time to work free in coverage. He is talented and a winner, but he processes slowly. That means the Eagles must be especially careful and selective with their passing concepts.

Hurts is not an anticipation thrower who consistently throws to a spot. He is more likely to wait for a receiver to get open, which can make it difficult to establish an offensive rhythm. Because he is not a quick processor, the Eagles should be cautious about relying heavily on quick five-step-drop concepts.

The offense needs protections that allow Hurts to hold the ball for an extra moment and give receivers time to get open. He can be a downfield thrower, but he also needs clear answers against pressure. A defense such as Kansas City could create problems by showing one look before playing another, potentially baiting him into mistakes. The Eagles must therefore be careful with their protections and how they structure the offense around him.