Philadelphia Eagles offensive lineman Lane Johnson pretty much confirmed a report from Jeff McLane of the Philadelphia Inquirer regarding quarterback Jalen Hurts leadership style. Players like A.J. Brown went out of their way to say publicly the report wasn’t accurate.
Jalen Hurts was called out by the Philadelphia Eagles last season
As previously discussed on GH, McLane reported that Eagles teammates were frustrated with Hurts not being a vocal enough leader:
“Clearly, Hurts has so many of the intangibles to be an elite quarterback: passing and running abilities, a genuine work ethic, and a willingness to do everything it takes to be the best. But team sources said the Eagles want their franchise quarterback to open himself up a little more in the locker room.
Players like and respect Hurts. The team doesn’t have to worry about him off the field. The Eagles want him to be authentic to himself, but they also need him to not isolate himself as much when a more outward leadership style is necessary, especially when the going gets tough.”
Head coach Nick Sirianni said this offseason that he wanted Hurts to be himself. However, Hurts appears to be evolving in his leadership of the Eagles—in a positive way.
Lane Johnson said Hurts has evolved as a leader this offseason
During an appearance on The Rich Eisen Show, Johnson said Hurts has “gone out of his way” to be more of a leader this offseason.
“Just this offseason, [Hurts has] really done a good job of bonding with his teammates,” Johnson said. “I feel like the connection has definitely grown. A really big offseason. The work ethic has never been an issue. Tremendous worker. But, just becoming a more vocal leader and, I think, whenever he speaks, guys listen up. Him reaching out to guys and creating these bonds in the offseason.”
There were problems with Hurts’ leadership last season
Johnson said the work ethic has never been an issue for the Eagles. But Johnson acknowledged that Hurts hasn’t been as vocal of a leader in the past. The players appreciate Hurts’ growth in being vocal this offseason, which means Johnson knew they had reason to be frustrated last season.
Hurts is growing as a vocal leader during OTAs and with his receivers during throwing sessions outside the Eagles’ facility. It remains to be seen if Hurts can continue to be a vocal leader on Sundays when the quarterback has felt more comfortable being stoic in the past. Or, if the team has adversity like last season, can he lead a rally if the Eagles lose a few games in a row?
If not, Hurts and Sirianni could be in trouble after the season.
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