Jason Kelce addressed the growing conversation around Jalen Hurts on Tuesday as the Philadelphia Eagles enter an offseason filled with questions about their offense. Hurts has been criticized for a lack of downfield production, especially after the team’s 23–19 Wild Card loss to the San Francisco 49ers. Kelce used a radio appearance to respond directly to the idea that Hurts is limited as a passer or incapable of running a more expansive system.
Jason Kelce Defends Jalen Hurts’ Ability and Mentality
Speaking on SportsRadio 94WIP, Kelce pushed back on the perception that Hurts cannot execute a more complex or aggressive passing offense.
Jason Kelce doesn’t “believe the narrative out there that Jalen Hurts can’t do these things.” pic.twitter.com/It8fq6I0vH
— SPORTSRADIO 94WIP (@SportsRadioWIP) January 15, 2026
“I don’t believe the narrative out there that Jalen Hurts can’t do these things,” Kelce said. “I’ve played with Jalen. I’ve seen him do a lot of really difficult things, and I’ve seen him grow as a player. I think he responds really well to being pushed and challenged. He rises to the challenge. He’s got an old-school mentality. His dad was a coach, he grew up around discipline, and that shows up in how he approaches the game.”
Hurts completed 20 of 35 passes for 168 yards and a touchdown in Philadelphia’s playoff loss to San Francisco. He did not complete a pass that traveled more than 14 air yards, continuing a season-long pattern in which the Eagles struggled to stretch defenses vertically. Hurts failed to eclipse 200 passing yards in nine of his 16 regular-season games.
Kelce said that kind of criticism overlooks what Hurts has already shown as a quarterback.
“I’ve been in the huddle with him. I’ve seen him make throws, manage pressure, handle big moments and continue to get better,” Kelce said. “Some players don’t respond well to tough coaching. Jalen does. He wants to be coached hard. He wants to be pushed. That’s how he’s wired.”
Kelce also pointed to what he hopes changes for the Eagles this offseason, especially on the offensive side of the ball.
“I’d like to see an offensive coordinator come in who pushes Jalen and pushes the offense to evolve,” Kelce said. “Somebody who’s creative, innovative and who puts guys in positions that use their strengths. That’s what this offense needs to get to the next level.”
Philadelphia finished the season with questions about its passing game despite elite skill-position talent and a productive rushing attack. Hurts remains under contract as the Eagles search for a new offensive coordinator and determine how to adjust their scheme after another year of inconsistency in the air.
Hurts ranked 15th in PFSN’s QBi. Despite the up-and-down season, Kelce said the foundation remains in place.
“I’ve seen what Jalen can do,” Kelce said. “All he wants to do is win.”
