Drew Brees expressed his disappointment with Jalen Hurts during the broadcast of the Eagles’ Week 2 game against the Titans. Brees took issue with Hurts opting to slide instead of pushing for a first down, feeling the quarterback played it too cautiously.
“I was just praising Jalen Hurts, but now I have to criticize him,” Brees remarked. “He should have lowered his shoulder and gone for that first down.”
During the second quarter, Hurts had a chance on a 3rd and 6. It seemed like he could have fought his way for the additional yard but instead chose to slide, leaving him short and setting up a 4th-and-3. This decision left Brees frustrated.
“The ball gets marked where you start your slide, not where you finish it,” he pointed out as the broadcast returned to the field action. “It’s not a 4th and 1; it’s a 4th and 3.”
This criticism stands out, especially for a quarterback like Hurts, who has often relied on his scrambling ability. Previously, Dick Vermeil, a former Eagles coach, noted Hurts’ more conservative playing style. He advised Hurts last season to embrace his running game since pressure from defensive lines could lead to advantageous plays.
Despite the earlier misstep, Hurts ended the game strongly, connecting with receiver Darius Cooper for a touchdown in the last moments, securing a 24-20 comeback victory over the Titans. Hurts’ overall performance included 26 completions on 37 attempts, totaling 264 yards, along with two touchdowns and two interceptions. He also ran for 16 yards on five carries, helping the Eagles to improve to a 2-0 record early in the season.
