Jalen Hurts ranked as 9th-best quarterback in NFL by executives, coaches and scouts

ESPN conducted a poll surveying NFL executives, scouts, and coaches to rank the top 10 quarterbacks, placing Philadelphia Eagles' Jalen Hurts ninth—an improvement from last year's honorable mention. Some voters ranked him as high as sixth, while others excluded him entirely. The debate centers on whether Hurts can ascend into the top five despite concerns about his pocket-passing abilities, with comparisons drawn to Russell Wilson's career trajectory requiring strong run support.

Hurts ranked below Lamar Jackson, Joe Burrow, Josh Allen, Patrick Mahomes (the consensus top four), Jared Goff, Justin Herbert, Matthew Stafford, and rookie Jayden Daniels. Goff and Herbert's higher placements sparked controversy given their playoff struggles, contrasting with Hurts' Super Bowl MVP credentials. Critics argue Hurts benefits from Philadelphia's elite supporting cast, including receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, a top-tier offensive line, and star running back Saquon Barkley—factors potentially limiting his ranking.

Despite roster advantages, Hurts demonstrated elite capability in critical 2024 postseason games, delivering career-best performances against the Washington Commanders in the NFC Championship and the Kansas City Chiefs in the Super Bowl. His regular-season inconsistency—marked by hesitant play and fluctuating passing rhythm—reportedly hindered a higher ranking. Since becoming the Eagles' starter, Hurts maintains a 46-20 record and finished second in 2022 MVP voting behind Mahomes, underscoring his winning impact when performances peak.