Even the plays that seem familiar are part of the learning curve, according to Hurts, because of the variations in details and roles. “The Xs and Os, the lines on the paper, may very well be what they are meant to be, but my coaching style, the way I describe these routes, and the way I instruct the quarterback, all depend on my desires for his timing, his eyes, and his gazing. Are receivers following the routes or not following the routes? Is the quarterback required to handle this, or are there alarms, checks, and changes already in place? That’s what distinguishes a system as such, he stated.
Both the Eagles’ minicamp, which concluded on Thursday, and OTA workouts made it evident that players are still getting used to the new information. Hurts’ playmakers have not always been on the same page, and quarterbacks Tanner McKee and Kenny Pickett have also had inconsistent timing.
JALEN HURTS UPDATE: The starting offense and Hurts didn’t appear to be at full speed. Hurts started the 7-on-7 with three consecutive possessions in which the ball was ineffectively or not out at all. Hurts was “sacked” several times; this wasn’t really his fault (Josh Sweat once easily defeated Jordan Mailata), but he didn’t make things any better. In terms of Hurts keeping onto the ball for an extended period of time or moving out swiftly for a brief reception, it seems like it has been a feast or a famine. When “pressure” prompted Hurts to roll left on a play, he misfired on a rather wide-open deep target.
The receiver ought to have had it comfortably or at least had an opportunity to make a play if he had added more air below it rather than zipping it. To what extent is Hurts’ lack of peak performance this spring warranted?