Six Years In: The Evolution and Impact of the Eagles Franchise Quarterback
The Philadelphia Eagles will be back under the lights for their first home game of the regular season next week. While the city won’t sleep in anticipation of another championship run, all eyes remain fixed on the face of the franchise—QB Jalen Hurts. The Super Bowl LIX victory helped Hurts to silence doubters on his passing abilities, but his upcoming year six season could help cement him as a true threat in the NFC. As the Philly team continues chasing dynasty status in their 2025 campaign, the question has evolved from can he win? to how great can he be?
Evolution
Hurts has shown a steady trajectory leading into year six. When he first entered the league in 2020, many critics suggested he switch to a running back position with his ability to pass the ball and read defenses in question. He started his career with an overall QB rate of 33.8% and a pass completion rate of 52%. However, in the past five years, both his passing and rushing yards have steadily climbed, showing his devotion to improvement.
Hurts ended his 2024 championship season with a 68.7% completion rate—this is a 16.7% increase from his rookie debut. As for postseason performance, his passer rating has continuously climbed over his four playoff appearances. Last postseason, he achieved five rushing touchdowns and five passing touchdowns, highlighting his clutch ability to carry the Eagles in their biggest moments. Not only has he demonstrated development in his passing game, but he has not lost his touch when running the ball. Last season, Hurts landed third in the league with an average of 42 QB rushing yards per game, leaving him only behind Lamar Jackson and Jayden Daniels. With 14 of those rushes for touchdowns, Hurts has solidified his ability to step up in the red zone.
Perhaps more impressive than his statistical improvement over the years is the way he has refined his style. In his early pro seasons, Hurts depended on his legs, which is why many could not see his potential as a quarterback. Despite this, as he heads into year six, his experience has allowed him to better dissect defenses with patience and accuracy. His development pairs well with his growing chemistry with star wide receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith. Overall, it is undeniable that his presence in the pocket is beginning to thrive, and fans are looking forward to what is coming next for him.
Looking Forward to the 2025 Season
Hurts has become the heartbeat of the locker room with his outstanding leadership. As dominant as he has proven to be, the Super Bowl win only places expectations even higher for the 2025 season. Still, Hurts has a lot of room to grow. Too often throughout his career, he has stayed in the pocket much longer than necessary, taking sacks when throwing the ball away in these moments could save the team valuable yards. Fine-tuning his decision-making skills and building more consistency with his deep throws could take Philly’s offense to the next level. If Hurts can balance his passion and aggressiveness with a bit more discipline in this next stretch, the Eagles may find themselves bringing home another Lombardi Trophy. Hurts has established that he belongs—but can he evolve into the elite QB who leads Philly to the dynasty status they’re chasing?
