Jalen Hurts has consistently delivered strong performances for the Philadelphia Eagles throughout his career, boasting a winning record in four of his five seasons. His ability to score touchdowns on the ground, particularly through the well-known “Tush Push” play, has become a reliable asset for the team. Despite this, some critics label Hurts as merely a “system quarterback,” implying that his success relies heavily on the environment and scheme rather than his individual talent.
His memorable run to the Super Bowl further cemented his value, but skepticism remains among certain viewers who argue that Hurts benefited more from the team’s overall strength than from singular heroics. The narrative often points to the Eagles’ dominant pass rush that disrupted opposing quarterback Patrick Mahomes, overshadowing Hurts’ own contributions during their playoff run. This perception fuels the debate over whether Hurts stands out on his own or simply thrives because the team’s system is built around him.
Manti Te’o’s Perspective on the “System QB” Debate
Former linebacker Manti Te’o addressed this topic during a recent episode of Good Morning Football, where he openly acknowledged labeling Hurts as a “system quarterback.” However, Te’o’s intention was not to diminish Hurts but to challenge the negative connotation often attached to that label. He argued that being a system player should not be viewed as a weakness, but rather as an acknowledgment that a player’s skills are maximized within a specific framework.
I said on this show last week that I think Jalen Hurts is a system quarterback,
—Manti Te’o, Former NFL Linebacker
I’m trying to change that narrative. That being a system player in any type of team or franchise is a bad thing, because it’s not. If you are an NFL football player, you would hope that you go to a team that utilizes your strengths the way that the Eagles utilize Jalen Hurts,
—Manti Te’o, Former NFL Linebacker
Te’o emphasized that the value of being a system player lies in fitting into a team that highlights a player’s best qualities, rather than forcing them to adapt to something that doesn’t suit their style. This viewpoint defends not only Hurts but also others like Brock Purdy, Tua Tagovailoa, and even Tom Brady, who have faced similar critiques for operating within system-driven offenses.
How the Eagles Tailor Their Offense Around Hurts
One of the key reasons Hurts thrives is the way the Eagles have designed their offense specifically around his talents. Manti Te’o offered an analogy comparing Hurts to a Porsche, explaining that just as a Porsche excels on paved roads but struggles off-road, Hurts performs best within the structured environment the Eagles provide.
Do you take a Porsche off-roading? No, you don’t. If you take a Porsche off-roading, you would think that it’s the worst car ever. But if you use the Porsche the right way, the way that the Porsche is supposed to be used, you understand that this is one of the greatest cars ever. Jalen Hurts is a Porsche, and the Eagles use him the way a Porsche should be used.
—Manti Te’o, Former NFL Linebacker
This approach involves mixing read-option plays that capitalize on Hurts’ rushing ability, while also leveraging his strong arm to connect with top receivers AJ Brown and DeVonta Smith. Additionally, the Eagles’ “Tush Push” has become a signature tactic for gaining easy first downs and touchdowns with Hurts at the helm. This blend of designed plays tailor-made for Hurts’ skill set creates a cohesive offense that consistently challenges defenses.
Why the “System QB” Label Should Not Undermine Hurts’ Achievements
Despite ongoing detractors who view the “system quarterback” label as a negative, it is clear that this arrangement has propelled Jalen Hurts to success, including earning a Super Bowl ring. The Eagles have optimized their game plan to utilize Hurts’ strengths effectively, proving that thriving within a system is not a limitation but rather a strategic advantage. As the team looks ahead, Hurts appears positioned to continue leading Philadelphia as a contender for future championships.
In the broader debate around system quarterbacks, Manti Te’o’s comments highlight a deeper understanding of how football relies on matching player abilities with team strategies. This perspective encourages recognizing the value in executing a system well, rather than expecting individual heroics at every turn. For Hurts and the Eagles, this mindset has already translated into measurable success and promises more to come.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why is Jalen Hurts so special?
A. Some people argue that Hurts is overrated due to the system supporting him. Although the Eagles boast a talented roster, the team excels largely because of Hurts. He is a strong leader, inspiring his teammates, and his varied skills make the offense flexible and unpredictable.
Q. Does Jalen Hurts believe in God?
A. He likes to keep his daily habits to himself. However, he often talks about how important his faith in God is to him. Hurts shared with Sports Spectrum that his belief has always been central to who he is. He wants to stay grounded in his faith and make sure God is at the core of his life and actions.
Q. Why can’t Jalen Hurts wear his shoes?
A. Earlier this season, Hurts caught attention by wearing mismatched cleats—one white and one green Jordan—because someone stepped on his foot. He didn’t want to miss any game time. Jalen Hurts got a “banned” letter from the NFL for wearing Air Jordans, breaking the league’s uniform rules.
Q. Is Jalen Hurts an introvert?
A. He stays calm, cool, and thinks things through carefully. In every sense of the word, Hurts is an introvert. Those of us who are similar find him an athlete we can really relate to and admire.