Jalen Hurts injury status: Latest on Eagles QB ahead of Week 17 Cowboys clash

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts missed Thursday's practice as he continues to recover from a concussion sustained in Week 16. His absence marks the second consecutive missed practice, casting a serious doubt on his availability for Sunday's crucial NFC East showdown against the Dallas Cowboys.

Hurts suffered the injury during the first quarter of the Eagles's 33-36 loss to the Washington Commanders. The incident occurred after a 13-yard scramble when linebacker Frankie Luvu delivered a hit. This caused Jalen Hurts's head to bounce off the turf. No flag was thrown on the play.

While the QB initially gave a thumbs-up to umpire Alex Moore after the play, the official stopped the game and sent him for evaluation. The Eagles's star quarterback didn't return to action and entered the NFL's five-step concussion protocol.

"Anything that has anything to do with the head is out of our hands there," Eagles coach Nick Sirianni said after the Commanders game. He later added they would "lean on the doctors to let us know on a daily basis of where he is."

Doctor Jesse Morse, MD, posted on social media why Jalen Hurts likely won't play for the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 17.

"Since he has not been able to get a limited practice in yet this week, even if he gets one in tomorrow, he simply doesn't have enough time to fully clear the concussion protocol," Morse explained.

Eagles' Quarterback Depth for Cowboys Game amidst Jalen Hurts Status

Philadelphia Eagles's quarterback Jalen Hurts injured himself during the 33-36 loss at the Washington Commanders. (Credits: IMAGN)

The Eagles have bolstered their quarterback options by signing Ian Book to their practice squad. Kenny Pickett, currently managing a rib injury, and Tanner McKee complete Philadelphia's expanded quarterback room.

Sirianni hasn't completely ruled out Jalen Hurts playing without practice;

"Each and every week is a different scenario," Sirianni told reporters. "What I've seen is Jalen knows how to prepare, knows how to get himself ready. He is a true pro."

The implications of Sunday's game loom large. Philadelphia could clinch the NFC East conference with a victory over Dallas at 1:00 p.m. ET on FOX.

The NFL's concussion protocol requires players to clear five benchmarks. These are symptom-limited activity, aerobic exercise, football-specific exercise, non-contact training drills, and full football activity clearance. With time running short, the Eagles may face their division rivals without their star quarterback.