Philadelphia Eagles center Cam Jurgens has highlighted quarterback Jalen Hurts‘ quiet leadership as a crucial factor for the team‘s success in the 2025 NFL season. Hurts’ unassuming but intense work ethic and steady demeanor have become essential assets for the Eagles amid growing competition in the NFC East.
Inside Jalen Hurts’ Low-Key Leadership Style
Unlike many NFL stars who express themselves loudly on and off the field, Jalen Hurts maintains a calm and reserved presence. There are no dramatic outbursts, cryptic social media posts, or headline-grabbing interviews from Hurts. Instead, his leadership is expressed through consistency and quiet confidence, which has earned him admiration behind the scenes.
Cam Jurgens, who took on the role of starting center for the Eagles in 2024, praised Hurts’ relentless dedication and under-the-radar influence. The two have developed a strong connection, built on clear communication and trust that underpins the Eagles’ offensive line’s success and their notable “tush-push” quarterback sneak package.
Jurgens attests to Hurts’ nearly obsessive work ethic. He told the Ross Tucker Podcast,
“It’s always a good thing when the person on the team who’s making the most amount of money, who gets the most attention… just shows up and works harder than almost anybody else on the team.”
—Cam Jurgens, Philadelphia Eagles center
This work ethic is reflected in Hurts’ performance on the field. In the 2024 season, he passed for 4,450 yards and 32 touchdowns, while adding eight rushing touchdowns, finishing second in total quarterback rating (68.2). His calm approach enables him to operate effectively as both a passer and a runner, providing balance and stability to the Eagles’ offense.
Contract Talks Reflecting Team-First Mentality
Hurts’ focus extends beyond his individual achievements, as his contract negotiations demonstrated a strong team orientation. His agent, Nicole Lynn, revealed that Hurts prioritized the team’s composition over his personal salary, emphasizing the importance of surrounding himself with capable teammates rather than maximizing his own earnings. This uncommon perspective highlights the quarterback’s commitment to collective success.
Cam Jurgens also commended Hurts’ leadership by noting,
“It’s just impressive to watch somebody of that stature just go in, day in, day out, and just show everybody an example of what you should be doing,”
—Cam Jurgens, Philadelphia Eagles center
Hurts’ quiet commitment to excellence serves as a model for his teammates, embedding an example of professionalism and hard work throughout the roster.
Challenges Facing the Eagles in the 2025 Season
Despite their status as reigning Super Bowl champions entering the 2025 season, the Eagles face stiff competition within the NFC East. ESPN analyst and former Jets general manager Mike Tannenbaum controversially predicted that the Washington Commanders will claim the division title this year, citing their rising star quarterback Jayden Daniels and key offensive additions.
Daniels, the 2024 Offensive Rookie of the Year, delivered an impressive rookie campaign with 3,568 passing yards, 25 touchdowns, and 891 rushing yards. The Commanders have also bolstered their offense by acquiring high-impact players like Deebo Samuel and Laremy Tunsil. This combination significantly elevates Washington’s threat level in the division.
However, the Eagles’ schedule presents a formidable challenge. They are slated to face 11 playoff teams from the previous season, including tough road games against elite squads like the Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, Green Bay Packers, and Minnesota Vikings. These matchups will demand near-perfect performance to maintain their contender status.
Strength in the Eagles’ Defensive Linebacking Corps
One key factor working in Philadelphia’s favor is their top-ranked linebacking group, according to Pro Football Focus (PFF). Zack Baun, coming off an outstanding season with a 90.2 grade, leads a unit that also includes Nakobe Dean, who is finding his stride, and rookie Jihaad Campbell, who appears poised to emerge as a major contributor. This formidable group aims to limit the effectiveness of opposing division quarterbacks like Dak Prescott and Jayden Daniels, reducing the defensive burden on Hurts.
Jalen Hurts’ Composure Could Define Eagles’ Season
Ultimately, much depends on the steady presence of Jalen Hurts. His quiet leadership—often praised by players such as Cam Jurgens—may be the unifying force that holds the team together as the NFC East becomes increasingly competitive. While some critics and analysts remain skeptical of Hurts’ abilities and impact, his work ethic and performance continue to dispel doubts.
As the Eagles embark on a difficult road with a challenging schedule, Hurts’ calm and resilient approach could prove to be their most valuable asset. His example sets the tone in practices and games alike, helping foster a culture that could secure another NFC East title and solidify Philadelphia’s place at the top of the league.