Senator Blunt Rochester Asks NFL About Jalen Hurts’ Health Protocols
Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester has sent a letter to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell regarding Jalen Hurts' health situation and the league's protocols.
Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester has reached out to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell seeking clarification on the league’s handling of Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts’ recent blood clot diagnosis.
In her communication, Blunt Rochester requested information about the NFL’s protocols for detecting and treating conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), which can be life-threatening. Her inquiries include questions about the standards for a player’s medical clearance and the education provided to players regarding signs of these conditions.
“Does the NFL have a league-wide protocol for the detection, prevention, and treatment of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism?” Blunt Rochester asked in her letter.
The senator also requested details on the steps taken to minimize blood clot risks, especially during long flights, and whether the league would review the Eagles’ management of Hurts’ case. Reports indicated that Hurts was cleared to play shortly after being hospitalized with a blood clot in London.
This situation gained further attention after the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) voiced their concerns regarding the handling of Hurts’ medical care. The union has called for a full investigation, stating they were not informed of any such review by the league.
NFL Commissioner Goodell, responding to these calls for an investigation, said, “We welcome that… Our protocols were incredibly good there,” emphasizing that player health is the league’s priority.
However, former NFL linebacker Emmanuel Acho criticized the Eagles’ decision to allow Hurts to play, labeling it as negligence. He argued that the focus should be on the medical professionals responsible for evaluating Hurts rather than the quarterback’s willingness to participate in the game. Acho characterized the approval for Hurts to play as a serious lapse in judgment.
Hurts, who is currently on blood thinners following the diagnosis, is expected to be sidelined from football activities. The Eagles confirmed that he will not participate in contact activities during his treatment, and there is no timeline yet for his return.
Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni defended the medical team’s decision-making, asserting that they prioritize the health of the players. He noted that the medical staff involved had successfully managed previous cases, including preparations for the Super Bowl.
As scrutiny continues over the NFL’s protocols and player safety, Blunt Rochester’s inquiries reflect growing legislative interest in the standards applied to ensure athlete health across the league.
