In the middle of a five-year contract, Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts is entering a season where many outsiders are discussing whether he’s worth another extension or if his job is on the line.
Ultimately, the popular narrative suggests that Hurts has to do much better in 2026 to justify another big payday. And if he doesn’t live up to the current numbers, perhaps the Eagles would consider other options.
94WIP host Joe Giglio believes that second path is the more realistic one the Eagles will have to take.
Why The Eagles Might Consider Cutting Ties With Jalen Hurts
GettyJalen Hurts #1 of the Philadelphia Eagles looks on during the first quarter awas at FedExField on October 29, 2023 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
“The reason he’s won so much is he’s played a smart brand of football. He’s also had an immense amount of talent around him,” Giglio said on Tuesday, May 26.
“As he gets more expensive, that’s just math, guys. They will be able to re-sign less people. They’ll have to let people go, so he’ll have to do more to justify his salary. If he’s average, I can’t pay him.”
“If Jalen is not the right option at $60 million, I don’t care what the right option is…I’ll figure it out.”
There are two solid arguments on each side for Jalen Hurts.
In Giglio’s defense, Hurts’ 2025 run was recognized by many as a down year. His QBR dropped to 55, the first time he was under 60 since his sophomore effort in 2021.
The rushing was a major concern for Hurts. Throughout his career, Hurts was a dual threat, posting at least 600 rushing yards in every season beyond his rookie year. However, he rushed for just 421 yards and eight touchdowns last year. Without the ground game threatening the defense, Hurts’ game didn’t always look complete.
GettyJalen Hurts #1 of the Philadelphia Eagles reacts prior to the game against the Chicago Bears at Lincoln Financial Field on November 28, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
On the other side, Hurts statistically had a better passing year compared to his Super Bowl-winning effort. In 16 games, he tossed 25 touchdowns to just six interceptions. He threw for 3,224 yards. For the third time in his career, Hurts was a Pro Bowler.
It’s fair to say that Hurts will have to do better in 2026, especially as the Eagles question their future with an elite weapon like AJ Brown.
At the same time, the Eagles knew that paying a franchise quarterback a large salary is just part of the game. They’ve won plenty with Hurts. Investing in another option would just be as risky–if not more–than riding it out with Hurts and seeing where he goes from here.