20 Sideline Moments That Show Jalen Hurts’ Leadership
Jalen Hurts’ sideline leadership shines through in moments of unwavering support, relentless work ethic, and inspiring resilience, igniting his team’s spirit and driving them to victory.
- Alyana Aguja
- 5 min read
Jalen Hurts’ leadership transcends the scoreboard, showing itself in the quiet, powerful moments on the sidelines that shape team culture and morale. Through unwavering support, relentless work ethic, and calm resilience, he inspires those around him to rise above pressure and play as one. This collection of real-life moments reveals how Hurts leads not just by talent, but by example, heart, and conviction.
1. Uplifting Saquon Barkley After a Costly Drop
Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
Though this photo captures Jalen Hurts handing off to Saquon Barkley during OTAs, it reflects the same leadership Hurts showed after a crucial drop in a tight game against the Falcons. His unwavering trust and support help keep the team united, both in practice and under game pressure.
2. Quizzing Teammates on the Playbook
Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
While this image shows Jalen Hurts connecting with Saquon Barkley during Super Bowl LIX, it echoes the same leadership mindset Hurts fostered in training camp, holding teammates accountable and keeping everyone mentally prepared. His commitment to continuous learning translates seamlessly from practice drills to game-day execution.
3. Leading Early Morning Workouts in Adverse Conditions
Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
This image of Jalen Hurts conferring with Coach Nick Sirianni during practice captures the same dedication he showed organizing 6 a.m. offseason workouts with A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith. His relentless work ethic, rain or shine, drives the team’s commitment to excellence.
4. Encouraging Kicker Jake Elliott After a Tough Play
Caean Couto-Imagn Images
After Jake Elliott took a hard hit following a field goal, Hurts approached him in the locker room and said, “Big-time f— play,” acknowledging his toughness and contribution to the team’s success.
5. Delivering a Postgame Speech Emphasizing Team Unity
Caean Couto-Imagn Images
This moment of Jalen Hurts celebrating with the Lombardi Trophy at the Super Bowl LIX parade captures the spirit of the team unity he emphasized after defeating the Cowboys. His leadership goes beyond the field, inspiring collective effort and shared success.
6. Maintaining Composure During a Tongue-Twisting Play Call
Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
In his first NFL start, Hurts stumbled over a complex play call but quickly composed himself and executed the play flawlessly. His poise under pressure impressed teammates and coaches alike.
7. Demonstrating Selflessness After Being Benched
Mickey Welsh
During the 2018 National Championship, Hurts was benched at halftime but continued to support his replacement, Tua Tagovailoa, from the sidelines. His grace and team-first attitude earned widespread admiration
8. Rallying Oklahoma Teammates During a Halftime Deficit
BRYAN TERRY / USA TODAY NETWORK
In a game against Baylor, Hurts delivered an impassioned halftime speech that energized the team, leading to a remarkable comeback victory. His leadership in adversity showcased his ability to inspire.
9. Setting the Standard for Work Ethic
Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Hurts is known for being one of the first to arrive and last to leave the practice facility, setting a high standard for dedication and preparation. His commitment influences teammates to elevate their own work ethic.
10. Embracing the Role of Team Captain
Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
At a press conference in São Paulo, Jalen Hurts expressed the weight of being named team captain and his commitment to lead by example. His leadership resonates not just in games, but in every moment he represents the team, on and off the field.
11. Donating to Improve Local Schools
Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Hurts donated $200,000 to install air conditioning units in Philadelphia schools, demonstrating his commitment to the community and the well-being of students.
12. Celebrating with Fans Post-Game
Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
After a game in Atlanta, Hurts ran to the stands to celebrate with Eagles fans, showing his appreciation and connection to the fanbase.
13. Maintaining Focus on Team Success Over Personal Accolades
William Bretzger-Delaware News Journal / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
At the Super Bowl celebration in Philadelphia, Jalen Hurts carried the Vince Lombardi Trophy with humility, reminding everyone that the victory was a team effort. His leadership is defined by putting collective success above individual accolades.
14. Encouraging Continuous Improvement
Peter Casey-Imagn Images
Hurts often reminds his team that “we have a standard for ourselves, and it only rises,” promoting a culture of constant growth and excellence.
15. Supporting Teammates Through Mistakes
Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
When a teammate made a significant error, Hurts chose to encourage rather than criticize, reinforcing trust and resilience within the team.
16. Leading by Example in Adverse Weather
Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
Hurts’ decision to proceed with a scheduled workout despite poor weather conditions demonstrated his commitment and inspired teammates to persevere.
17. Fostering a Culture of Accountability
Peter Casey-Imagn Images
Before facing the Washington Commanders, Jalen Hurts’ interaction with Will Shipley highlights the leadership that extends beyond the playbook. By keeping teammates accountable and prepared, Hurts ensures the whole team is ready to execute under pressure.
18. Demonstrating Resilience After Setbacks
Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
Hurts embodies the philosophy of “you either win or you learn,” using losses as opportunities for growth and encouraging the team to adopt the same mindset.
19. Acknowledging Teammates’ Contributions
Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
In the heat of the game at Caesars Superdome, Jalen Hurts leads the huddle with a focus on lifting his teammates. His consistent recognition of their efforts helps create a supportive environment that fuels the Eagles’ performance.
20. Maintaining Composure Under Pressure
Tim Heitman-Imagn Images
Jalen Hurts’ calm reaction after a play against the Dallas Cowboys highlights the steady presence he brings to high-pressure moments. His composed leadership inspires confidence and keeps the team focused when it matters most.