Former Eagles center Jason Kelce believes quarterback Jalen Hurts is ready to make a significant leap in his development this season, taking on more responsibility at the line of scrimmage.
With the departure of legendary center Jason Kelce, the Philadelphia Eagles are entering a new era, and Hurts is poised to play a pivotal role. For the first time in over a decade, the offense will lack Kelce's leadership in the trenches.
Kelce, who retired this offseason, had earned first-team All Pro honors in his final three seasons with the team. His presence on the field was an invaluable asset, taking on a considerable amount of responsibility and allowing Hurts to focus on other aspects of his game.
Jason Kelce Praises Jalen Hurts' Growth Ahead of Eagles Season Opener
However, according to Hurts, this limited his eagerness to learn. In a recent episode of "New Heights with Jason and Travis Kelce," Travis Kelce brought up Hurts' comments, stating that he was told not to worry about making protection calls due to Kelce's expertise.
Jason Kelce responded with his disappointment in how the Philadelphia media had misinterpreted Hurts' remarks as an excuse. He believes that Hurts is now at a stage in his career where he is prepared to handle this responsibility, which will ultimately benefit his overall game.
Jason Kelce Praises Jalen Hurts' Growth Ahead of Eagles Season Opener
"I think he's ready for it. One, from a knowledge base, two, I think he's ready for it just by being a more experienced player," Kelce said. "He's going to be more of a leader and needs to be more of a leader and have more of this responsibility on him. I'm excited to see how this goes for him this year."
Travis Kelce emphasized that this transition is not a negative reflection on Hurts but rather a testament to his growth as a player. "You can't take anything negative out of that. All you can take is that he's taken the next step. He's getting better, ladies and gentlemen. So don't take that as a negative thing just because it's something he didn't have to worry about that in the years past," he said.
Jason Kelce Praises Jalen Hurts' Growth Ahead of Eagles Season Opener
Jason Kelce compared Hurts' situation to that of Patrick Mahomes, who also struggled to read defenses early in his career. He emphasized the importance of having supportive coaches and teammates who can guide players in their development.
The Eagles open their season on Friday against the Green Bay Packers, and Kelce is uncertain what to expect from the Packers' defense. "It's always interesting to play new coordinators Week 1, especially guys that weren't promotions from within," he said.
Jason Kelce Praises Jalen Hurts' Growth Ahead of Eagles Season Opener
Despite the challenges ahead, Kelce is confident in the Eagles' ability to handle the blitz and believes that Hurts' newfound leadership will lead to a more productive offense.
In addition to his work as an analyst on ESPN's "Monday Night Football Countdown," Jason Kelce will continue to host "New Heights with Jason and Travis Kelce" with his brother. The podcast has gained significant popularity, providing fans with insights into the world of football from two of the most knowledgeable and entertaining players in the game.
Jason Kelce Praises Jalen Hurts' Growth Ahead of Eagles Season Opener
