NFL Launches Probe Into Hurts' Blood Clot Diagnosis

The NFL has launched a formal investigation into the medical care surrounding Jalen Hurts' blood clot diagnosis, following a joint statement with the NFL Players Association ^[1]. The probe comes after the NFLPA demanded a full review, emphasizing the need to determine facts to protect future players. Hurts, the Philadelphia Eagles' quarterback, was placed on injured reserve after a clot in his left calf traveled to his lungs, resulting in bilateral pulmonary emboli ^[2]. He is now expected to miss the rest of the season and will remain off football activities until off blood thinners.

Dr. David Abbasi told TMZ's 'In The Know' that Hurts could be sidelined for 3 to 6 months due to the risk of serious bleeding complications ^[1]. The initial injury occurred on Oct. 4 during a game against the Los Angeles Rams, when Hurts took a cleat to his calf ^[2]. He reported the issue after practice on Oct. 8, returned to practice the next day, and played against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Oct. 11 despite being diagnosed with a superficial clot in London.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell defended the Eagles' medical protocols, stating they were followed and that Chief Medical Officer Dr. Allen Sills had reviewed the case ^[2]. Goodell said the league welcomed the investigation, even as he stood by the team's process. The Eagles and Hurts' agent Nicole Lynn confirmed the diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis and bilateral pulmonary emboli.

The claim that the Eagles' medical team's protocols were flawless has not been confirmed and is reported only by Goodell and the league ^[2]. The league's decision to investigate underscores growing scrutiny over player safety and medical response, especially when a star athlete’s career is at stake ^[1]. What happens next will likely shape how teams and the league handle similar cases in the future.