Jalen Hurts has recently grabbed headlines, not just for his on-field prowess but for his off-field inquiries into the minds of great defensive thinkers like former New York Giants defensive coordinator Wink Martindale. During a recent media availability session, it was evident that Martindale's strategies had piqued significant interest, with five out of the first seven questions directed at Hurts focusing on Martindale.
Reflecting on the challenging end to the Eagles' previous season, which saw them plummet from a promising 10-1 start to losing six of their final seven games and eventually falling to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in a wild card playoff, Hurts' quest for knowledge seems both timely and strategic. His engagement with Martindale and current Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio underscores his commitment to personal and team improvement.
"Sometimes I think people are only able to know what they understand. Sometimes people don't know what they don't know. But in that regard, I think where we are is you have reports and you have rumors and then you have reality. We're in reality right now," Hurts remarked, shedding light on his analytical approach to the game.
Strategic Conversations
Hurts' initiative to reach out to Martindale goes beyond casual conversation. "I was just trying to pick his brain, see what he saw in us, trying to get some tips on some things. I think it was more so for me trying to continue to pour into my cup in terms of knowledge, and I've had a lot of respect for what he's done," he said, highlighting the respect and intent behind his actions.
This approach is not limited to Martindale alone. Hurts is also engaging in detailed discussions with Fangio to enhance his comprehension of defensive strategies. The dialogue covers everything from specific techniques employed by defensive backs to the broader strategic intentions behind plays.
Hurts mentioned, "I joked about the competitiveness between the two of us, but having those conversations with him and seeing what certain techniques defensive backs are playing and what his intentions are behind each play, what's he trying to take away, where's he vulnerable at."
Learning from Experience
The Eagles' disappointing end to last season has set the stage for a period of reflection and learning. Hurts views this as a pivotal moment for growth, not just for himself but for the entire team. "This team is one of those teams that's going to do that, especially with the things that we've been able to experience," he stated, underscoring a collective resilience and determination to rise above past failings.
"It was a developing time, it was a time of development for us, and that's something we learned from," Hurts added, indicating that the previous season's hardships were valuable lessons that would inform their future endeavors.
Building a Smarter Game
Hurts' dedication to understanding defensive schemes is part of a larger effort to become a more cerebral player. He believes that these insights will equip him with the tools necessary for his development and for playing better football. "All of that is an eventual tool for me in my development and understanding where the boys are so I can play better football," he explained.
While Hurts' performance on the field remains under constant scrutiny, his off-field efforts to improve and adapt demonstrate a maturity and intelligence that bode well for his future in the league. By learning from seasoned strategists, Hurts is crafting a more nuanced and strategic approach to his game, setting the stage for what could be a defining season for the young quarterback and his team.
Resuming efforts on an individual level and examining team dynamics through detailed discussions, Hurts and the Eagles look forward to a season of redemption and improvement, fortified by the lessons of the past and the insights gathered from some of football's renowned defensive minds.