In every sport, a subtle yet unmistakable shift occurs. It’s that moment a seasoned veteran hears his walk-up music in a young rookie’s headphones. The cycle continues, often before the established star even feels he has become a veteran. And the music just got a little louder for one Philadelphia Eagles quarterback.
The shift arrived for Jalen Hurts early in October. A reporter casually mentioned that Giants rookie Jaxson Dart models his game after him. Hurts’ response was both immediate and telling. "That makes me feel old," he admitted with a chuckle. He then added, "It does make me feel old. I got a lot of respect for his game. I know he's played for Coach [Lane] Kiffin. He's a hell of a player. He's honestly in a great situation to learn a lot. So, rooting for his success." The torch, it seems, is being passed right in his own division.
More significantly, Dart was coached by Lane Kiffin at Ole Miss. The same Kiffin who coached Hurts for one season at the University of Alabama in 2016, serving as both offensive coordinator and quarterback coach. Besides, this moment transcends a simple soundbite.
Hurts, at just 27, has already built a legacy worthy of imitation. He owns a Super Bowl ring and a 41-11 regular season record since 2022. Meanwhile, Dart is a 22-year-old rookie leading a 1-4 Giants team. The Eagles are definitely the favorites for their Thursday night clash. However, Dart’s admiration highlights Hurts' profound impact on the league. But what prompted Hurts' reaction?
It was Dart’s praise for the Eagles' captain. It was specific and insightful. "I love his mentality, his everyday accountability of himself," the rookie said. He particularly noted Hurts’ resilience, stating, "Him being able to go through adversity... and just being able to rally the guys. That was something that really stood out to me."
Well, this is the blueprint for success in a demanding city like Philadelphia. And the student is now studying the master’s entire approach.
A Prime-Time Litmus Test for Jalen Hurts & Co.
This Thursday at MetLife Stadium offers a stark contrast in trajectories. The Eagles are licking their wounds after a surprising loss to Denver. Their offense stalled late, managing a mere nine yards on their final four drives. All eyes are now on Hurts to author a classic bounce-back performance and re-establish their dominance. And the Giants present the perfect opportunity.
Their defense ranks 25th against the pass. This could be the stage for A.J. Brown to explode, especially after a heart-to-heart with Hurts and Saquon Barkley. Establishing the run with Barkley against his former team, who allow 5.3 yards per carry, will be crucial. The Eagles’ offensive line must handle a talented Giants defensive front to let their playmakers thrive.
Defensively, the Eagles must welcome Dart to the NFC East. Coordinator Vic Fangio praised the rookie, "I like him. Another mobile quarterback... He's good. I think they got themselves a quarterback." Fangio’s unit, however, is historically tough on first-year passers. With the Giants possessing the league’s worst red zone offense, the Eagles’ defense can dictate the game's tempo.
This is more than a division game for Philadelphia. It is a statement. They must prove their Week 5 loss was a fluke and that their championship mettle remains intact. Hurts, now cast in the role of the established veteran, has the chance to show the rookie and the league the level required to win.
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Hurts may joke about feeling ancient, but the best way to stay young is to win. A victory keeps Philly atop the NFC and turns the apprentice into another name on the résumé. As Dart said, “It’s going to be really cool to be on the same field with him.” Cool for us, too—because every legend needs a fresh mirror.