Jalen Hurts is expected to have quarterback advantages in 13 of the Philadelphia Eagles’ 17 games, according to the latest analysis.
What happened
In 2026, Hurts, the Eagles’ starting quarterback, continues his trend of performing well in even-numbered years, following notable successes in 2022 and 2024. This year, analysts anticipate Hurts to outshine his opponents in the majority of his matchups. “We with the odds—after all, it is an even year,” the report stated.[1]
Despite struggles in odd years, Hurts still managed a career-high 25 touchdowns during the challenging 2025 season. He ended 2025 ranked 20th in NFL quarterback ratings, down from a personal best in 2024. Analysts predict that Hurts will be the superior quarterback in most regular-season games against varying levels of competition, including future Hall of Famers and emerging talents.[3]
Why it matters
The Eagles enter the 2026 season with high expectations, building on their recent playoff appearances. Dominating in regular-season games could position Hurts and the Eagles for deeper playoff runs, contributing to fan engagement and team morale. This analysis reflects on the importance of quarterback performance in driving team success in a competitive league.
Background
On May 20, 2022, Hurts led the Eagles to a successful season, reaching the Super Bowl in 2024. However, odd years have posed challenges for him. In 2025, the Eagles faced difficulties and were eliminated early in the playoffs. Despite this, they achieved an 11-5 record, demonstrating potential for improvement in the subsequent season.
What’s next
The Eagles will kick off their 2026 season on September 13 against the Washington Commanders. As they face various quarterbacks this season, the performance of Hurts will be crucial in determining the team’s success.[2]
