Jalen Hurts has consistently credited his parents, Averion Sr. and Pamela Hurts, for laying the groundwork for his football journey early on. The Philadelphia Eagles quarterback has always had their support and guidance, which has helped him overcome the ups and downs of his career and achieve success in the NFL.
Jalen Hurts’ Father, Averion Hurts Sr.
Averion Hurts Sr. introduced his son to football.
The elder Hurts is a seasoned football coach who has dedicated his career to nurturing young talent at Channelview High School in Texas, where he also mentored his sons.
A graduate of Channelview High School himself, Averion was determined to give back to his community by returning to coach his alma mater after an earlier coaching role at Lee High School in Baytown, Texas. Hurts got his initial hunger for going pro in football from his dad.
The Eagles QB’s dad has a degree from Howard Payne University, where he was actively involved in football and track. He instilled in his sons a strong work ethic and a deep understanding of the game.
Hurts shared some of that insight during a press conference before the 2023 Super Bowl.
“I have a foundation kind of set for myself, but my parents did that for me. And I think being a coach’s kid, they created habits for me to see things a certain way, have the wisdom that I have, and I give all the credit to them.”
Keep the main thing the main thing. Jalen Hurts speaks to the media #SuperBowlLVII https://t.co/9i9sNTkStt
— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) February 7, 2023
Averion couldn’t be more proud of his eldest son, who’s made the best of his opportunity to become a football player.
Appearing on NFL’s “Good Morning Football” podcast, Jalen’s father said: “It’s a blessing to watch a young man that developed a passion for a sport and really, really worked hard at every level and every turn.”
The Eagles drafted Hurts in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft after he scored 52 TDs for the Oklahoma Sooners. Hurts signed a $255 million contract with the Eagles over five years, averaging roughly $51 million annually.
Jalen Hurts’ Mother, Pamela Hurts
Pamela Hurts has been the steady force behind Jalen’s success. She balanced her demanding career with her responsibilities as a mother.
With degrees in both arts and business administration, Pamela has built a successful career in education. She served as the Chief of the Special Services Department at Anthony Aguirre Junior High while also teaching math to grades 6-8.
She supported her son when he struggled at Alabama in 2018 and played backup to Tua Tagovailoa. Hurts spoke to the media about coaches and what aspects of the game they can and can’t control, which received quite a backlash.
Speaking to reporters, Pamela said: “When has Jalen ever spoken to media about anything other than the team? When has he ever whined, pouted, or talked about what ‘y’all’ don’t know takes place behind the scenes? Jalen spoke his truth, finally, after three years of being compliant and controlled. You have no idea what is and has been going on, and most likely, never will.”
She and Averion have always prioritized attending their son’s games whenever possible despite their demanding schedules.