Jalen Hurts Excels in Play-Action, Easing Eagles' Concerns

Jalen Hurts is easing concerns about his ability to handle play-action concepts in the Philadelphia Eagles' new offense.

What are the concerns about Jalen Hurts' play-action abilities?

The Eagles' new offensive coordinator, Sean Mannion, is expected to emphasize play-action concepts, sparking debate about Hurts' ability to operate efficiently under center. Hurts has spent years proving doubters wrong, with a resume that includes Pro Bowl appearances, deep playoff runs, and a Super Bowl championship.

How has Jalen Hurts performed on play-action passes?

According to NFL Next Gen Stats, Hurts completed 72 of 115 play-action pass attempts in the 2025 season, resulting in 811 yards, seven touchdowns, three interceptions, and a 93.1 passer rating. And without play action, Hurts completed 242 of 374 passes for 2,581 yards, 19 touchdowns, three interceptions, and a 98.4 passer rating.

What do the numbers say about Jalen Hurts' ability to execute play-action concepts?

The numbers suggest Hurts has already demonstrated the ability to execute play-action concepts efficiently, with production remaining largely consistent regardless of whether a fake is incorporated into the play's design. But concerns about operating under center are more complicated, with the Eagles running only 221 plays from under-center formations last season, ranking 27th in the NFL. Only 21.7 percent of those snaps resulted in pass attempts, the third-lowest percentage in football.

What's next for Jalen Hurts and the Eagles?

As Mannion begins putting his stamp on the offense, the numbers should provide confidence in Hurts' ability to handle an expanded play-action package. So the obvious question is whether that efficiency remains intact as the volume increases. And with Hurts' consistent pattern of growth, it's likely he'll continue to prove doubters wrong. The Eagles will be looking to build on their success, with Hurts at the helm, as they head into the new season.