Jalen Hurts talks about the Eagles’ season opener

The Eagles QB spoke about the opportunity to play in South America and why he’s so thankful.

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts spoke to reporters in Brazil on Thursday, and talked about this unique opportunity, how he’s approaching this year as a leader, and why playing in South America is surreal.

“I’m very excited. I’m excited to be here. It’s a beautiful place, and just being blessed and expressing my gratitude for being able to play in general, it didn’t really matter where.”

Hurts said that he thinks about growing up in East Houston and trying to find any piece of grass to play and throw the ball around a bit, all for the love of the game, and to see how far that’s taken him — playing internationally —, he has an immense sense of gratitude.

The QB talked about the game of football expanding, internationally and with flag football coming to the 2028 Olympics, and how he’s excited to see a game that can be for anybody being introduced more broadly.

Hurts acknowledged that it’s very important to come out strong and get a win in a season opener. It’s important that they come out playing fast, and he’s excited to see where this team goes this season, and it all starts with Friday’s game.

“I think the number one thing you want to go out there and do is play together, play as a team. That’s the most important thing. No man is an island, you must draw your strength from the next guy. And everyone truly has to do their job for the betterment of the team. So, I’m just excited for that journey, the new roles and new responsibilities we all have on this team. I’m excited to go to work with this group, for sure.”

Hurts later emphasized the point of playing together, and explained that is how he’s approached things as a leader coming off the disappointing end of the 2023 season. No individual is going to get it done on their own, they have to do it as a team, but the QB is proud of the work that everyone has done to continue to get better — in the morning, at night, and on off days.

His recurring message was how thankful he is for the opportunity, as a kid from East Houston, Texas to be playing American football in South America, and how he’s excited for the atmosphere on Friday night.