BAD NEWS: Guard Jalen Hurts, while playing for the Eagles at Highmark Stadium, delivered unwelcome news. A surprising nine-word message about the 27-year-old’s concussion has caused great concern among the Eagles’ coaching staff…

In a tense and hard-fought battle at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park, New York, the Philadelphia Eagles secured a narrow 13-12 victory over the Buffalo Bills on December 28, 2025.

The game, played under challenging weather conditions with rain and wind affecting play throughout, showcased the Eagles’ resilience as they held on despite a scoreless second half.

Quarterback Jalen Hurts, the 27-year-old dual-threat star, led the team to an early lead with a touchdown pass to tight end Dallas Goedert, marking his career-high 25th passing touchdown of the season. However, the win came at a potential cost, as concerns emerged regarding Hurts’ health following the contest.

Hurts completed 13 of 27 passes for 110 yards and one touchdown, while adding just five rushing yards on three carries. His completion percentage dipped below 50% for the first time this season, largely attributed to the wet conditions that made gripping the ball difficult and led to inaccurate throws.

The Eagles’ offense struggled mightily after the first quarter, failing to score again as the Bills’ defense clamped down. Despite the low output, Philadelphia’s defense stepped up, limiting Buffalo to four field goals and preserving the slim margin.

The victory improved the Eagles’ record and kept them in strong contention for playoff positioning as the regular season winds down.

Yet, the post-game focus quickly shifted from celebration to worry. Reports surfaced that Hurts, known for his toughness and leadership, delivered a candid assessment of his physical state to the coaching staff.

In a private conversation overheard by team sources, the quarterback reportedly said a surprising nine-word message: “I don’t feel right after that hit last week.” This revelation referenced lingering effects from a previous play, potentially tying back to earlier concerns about head impacts during the season.

Although Hurts had no reported concussion in the Buffalo game itself, the admission raised alarms about possible delayed symptoms or an undisclosed issue from prior weeks.

The Eagles’ coaching staff, led by head coach Nick Sirianni, has expressed significant concern over the statement. Team medical personnel immediately began evaluating Hurts, placing him under observation for any signs of concussion protocol activation.

In the NFL, player safety protocols are strict, requiring independent neurological evaluations for any suspected head injury. Hurts’ history of playing through pain—having battled various ailments in past seasons—only heightened the unease. Staff members worry that pushing through could exacerbate any underlying issue, especially with the playoffs looming.

Hurts has been the cornerstone of the Eagles’ success in 2025, averaging over 22 fantasy points per game in full outings and ranking among the top quarterbacks in dual-threat production. His ability to extend plays with his legs and deliver in clutch moments has been pivotal.

Earlier in the season, he navigated ankle concerns and other minor injuries without missing time, often downplaying them in press conferences. But this latest message suggests something more serious, prompting questions about his availability for the final regular-season game against the Washington Commanders and beyond.

Sirianni, in his post-game comments, praised Hurts’ grit but deferred specifics on health to the medical team. “Jalen is a warrior out there,” Sirianni said.

“He gives everything for this team, but we always prioritize health.” Backup options like Kenny Pickett and Tanner McKee are available, but the Eagles’ offense revolves around Hurts’ unique skill set. Losing him, even briefly, could disrupt the rhythm built with stars like A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, and Saquon Barkley.

Fans and analysts alike reacted with dismay on social media, highlighting the risks of the quarterback position in today’s NFL. Concussions remain a hot-button issue, with the league continually refining protocols to protect players.

Hurts’ message underscores the human element behind the highlights—the toll of absorbing hits while scrambling or in the pocket. At 27, he is in his prime, coming off a Super Bowl appearance and consistently elevating the franchise.

As the Eagles prepare for their next matchup, all eyes are on the injury report. If Hurts enters concussion protocol, he would need to progress through the five-phase process, including clearance from an independent specialist.

The coaching staff’s concern is palpable; they know the difference between a healthy Hurts and any alternative is vast. This unwelcome news casts a shadow over an otherwise gritty road win, reminding everyone that in the NFL, triumph and trepidation often go hand in hand.

The team remains optimistic, drawing on Hurts’ proven resilience. He has overcome adversity before, leading late-game comebacks and powering through physical challenges. But the nine-word admission has sparked widespread worry, not just in Philadelphia but across the league.

As the regular season concludes and playoffs approach, the Eagles hope their quarterback can shake off whatever ails him and continue his stellar campaign. For now, the bad news lingers, a stark reminder of the fine line between heroism and vulnerability in professional football.