Jalen Hurts, the Philadelphia Eagles' determined quarterback, has recently found himself in the media's crosshairs over his interactions with former New York Giants defensive coordinator, Wink Martindale. During a recent media availability session, five of the first seven questions posed to Hurts were focused on Martindale, highlighting the growing intrigue around these conversations.
Last season, the Eagles took off with an impressive 10-1 start but faltered as they lost six of their final seven games. Their promising season came to an abrupt end with a wild card playoff loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Seeking to rectify past mistakes and elevate his game, Hurts has proactively reached out to notable defensive minds, including Martindale and the Eagles' current defensive coordinator, Vic Fangio.
The Martindale Connection
Hurts called the former Giants coordinator to gain insights into how New York's defense prepared against him. "I was just trying to pick his brain, see what he saw in us, trying to get some tips on some things," Hurts shared. "I think it was more so for me trying to continue to pour into my cup in terms of knowledge, and I've had a lot of respect for what he's done."
By engaging with Martindale, Hurts aims to enhance his understanding of defensive strategies from the other side of the ball. "We've had a lot of success against him, and I think that was one we were trying to make a run, make a push, and I wanted to pour into my cup of knowledge, pick his brain, and get some things," Hurts elaborated. This approach underscores Hurts' commitment to learning and growing as both a player and a leader.
Engaging with Vic Fangio
In addition to his conversations with Martindale, Hurts is also tapping into the expertise of Vic Fangio, the Eagles' defensive coordinator. Hurts acknowledged the valuable insights he's gained from these discussions, particularly regarding defensive techniques and strategies. "I joked about the competitiveness between the two of us, but having those conversations with him and seeing what certain techniques defensive backs are playing and what his intentions are behind each play, what's he trying to take away, where's he vulnerable at," Hurts explained.
This engagement has undoubtedly contributed to Hurts' development, providing him with new perspectives on defensive play that he can utilize in his preparation and execution on the field. All of this is an eventual tool for me in my development and understanding where the boys are so I can play better football," he stated.
Focused on Improvement
Despite last season's rocky end, Hurts remains resolute in his commitment to his growth and the success of his team. "This team is one of those teams that's going to do that, especially with the things that we've been able to experience," Hurts affirmed. He is focused on applying the knowledge he has accumulated and improving as a leader and quarterback.
Reflecting on the past season, Hurts views it as a crucial period of growth and learning. "It was a developing time, it was a time of development for us, and that's something we learned from," he noted. As he continues to engage with defensive masterminds and pour into his cup of knowledge, Hurts is striving to lead the Eagles to a more successful season ahead.
"Sometimes I think people are only able to know what they understand," Hurts remarked. "Sometimes people don't know what they don't know. But in that regard, I think where we are is you have reports and you have rumors and then you have reality. We're in reality right now."
With a clear focus on reality and a dedication to improvement, Jalen Hurts exemplifies the traits of a true leader. His proactive approach to learning from the best in the business and his ability to integrate new insights into his game position him as a key player to watch in the upcoming season.