The Philadelphia Eagles continue their preseason planning as they enter Week 2 against the Cleveland Browns, a game that, if similar to the joint practices the teams held, is expected to be very physical and focused in the trenches.
After the starters rested in Week 1 against the Cincinnati Bengals, fans are eager to know whether Jalen Hurts and other key rotation players will take the field this Saturday. Here’s what we know about Hurts’ status and whether he will play any series against the Browns.
Will Jalen Hurts Play Against the Cleveland Browns?
The Eagles’ approach to entering the 2025 season has been interesting. Many players are trying to distance themselves from being reigning champions to reduce the pressure of defending the title instead of starting a new project.
Hurts, better than anyone, knows how to lead in these moments. Shortly after the Super Bowl, he emphasized looking toward the next year and not over-celebrating a past accomplishment. This mindset is exactly what fans want to see again as the team prepares for the season.
Last week, the standout in the game against the Bengals was Tanner McKee, who finished with 20 completions on 25 attempts, 252 passing yards, and two touchdowns. He is likely to keep the majority of reps this week.
Tanner McKee to Darius Cooper extends the @Eagles‘ lead 🦅
Stream CINvsPHI on @NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/haXcgMmm2d
— NFL (@NFL) August 8, 2025
Hurts’ status remains uncertain, as Nick Sirianni has kept his plans for the starters in this preseason somewhat mysterious. Even if Hurts plays, his participation is expected to be minimal.
Reports from joint practices showed Hurts struggling against the Browns’ defensive line, which dominated the Eagles’ offensive line. This could signal to Sirianni that it’s better to rest his quarterback and focus on practice reps to prepare him for the regular season.
There has been much discussion about Hurts’ role on this team, which has multiple stars at wide receiver and on the offensive line, and of course, Saquon Barkley, last season’s key catalyst. Whether it’s a leadership or starring role, Hurts is crucial to Sirianni’s system and cannot risk injury.
In the Super Bowl win over the Kansas City Chiefs, Hurts was the MVP, posting 221 passing yards, 72 rushing yards, and three total touchdowns, despite a single interception. His performance showed how clutch he can be when the team needs him.
Jalen Hurts & A.J. Brown with a back shoulder beauty! 🎯
📺: #SBLIX on FOX
📱: Tubi + NFL app pic.twitter.com/31tNZdf9MC
— NFL (@NFL) February 10, 2025
Even if he plays, fans should not expect to see much of Hurts on the field. The focus will remain on young players competing for roster spots and positional battles.
The Eagles vs. Browns game kicks off Saturday, August 16, at 1:00 p.m. ET. Fans in Philadelphia can watch on NBC10, Cleveland viewers can tune in to WEWS News 5, and the game will be available on NFL+ for other markets.
