NFL and NFLPA issue conflicting statements on handling of Jalen Hurts' blood clot situation
The Philadelphia Eagles have drawn widespread criticism for their management of quarterback Jalen Hurts' health after it was revealed he played in London and took a transatlantic flight home while already diagnosed with blood clots in his calf. Further testing later showed he had developed blood clots in his lungs, and he was subsequently ruled out for the remainder of the season. NFL Chief Medical Officer Allen Sills spent several minutes defending the league and the Eagles' medical protocol, while the NFL had previously told The Athletic the situation was handled appropriately. The NFLPA contradicted that stance in a Tuesday statement, saying the league had informed the union it did not plan to review Hurts' care and calling for a full investigation; NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell subsequently said the league would welcome such an inquiry.
Before conclusions are drawn about how this situation was handled, there must be a full investigation into what occurred.
Why it matters
For service providers: Player safety organizations and unions are watching closely as this case tests accountability mechanisms for medical care standards in the NFL.
For coaches: Coaches and team management face scrutiny over how much influence they hold over medical decisions affecting player availability.
For media: The contradiction between the NFL's public defense and the NFLPA's account gives media a significant accountability story involving one of the league's highest-profile players.
For athletes: Pro players may want to understand their rights and the independence of team medical staff when injury management decisions are made.
Read the full story at Awful Announcing
Sources
- Awful Announcing · Qwame Skinner: NFL world reacts to conflicting statements from NFL medical exec, NFLPA on Jalen Hurts situation
- The Athletic: Jalen Hurts’ blood clot diagnosis: A timeline of his care and the questions that followed