Jalen Hurts ranked No. 3 among NFL’s top franchise players for 2026

Jalen Hurts has been named the NFL’s No. 3 true franchise player for the 2026 season by analyst Brad Gagnon, who labeled the Philadelphia Eagles quarterback as 'special' in a Bleacher Report column published on 15 Jul 2026.

What did the analyst say about Jalen Hurts?

Gagnon’s ranking highlights Hurts’ rare blend of passing and rushing production, calling him a uniquely talented and accomplished 27-year-old. “Supporting cast, weaponry and system have certainly helped bring Hurts along as a franchise quarterback in Philadelphia, but that doesn’t change the fact the uniquely talented and accomplished 27-year-old is exactly that,” Gagnon wrote. He also noted Hurts’ deep-ball dominance, with 40 deep touchdown passes over the last four seasons-far more than any other quarterback.

How did Jalen Hurts perform in 2025?

Hurts wrapped the 2025 season with 3,224 passing yards, 25 passing touchdowns, 421 rushing yards and eight rushing touchdowns. His 64.8% completion rate marked another efficient year under center. The Eagles’ signal-caller now sits at 17,891 career passing yards, 110 passing touchdowns, 3,554 rushing yards and 63 rushing touchdowns. He’s a three-time Pro Bowler and the reigning Super Bowl LIX MVP.

What’s next for Jalen Hurts and the Eagles?

The Eagles open the 2026 season at home against the Washington Commanders on 7 Sep 2026. Hurts faces added pressure after the departures of A.J. Brown and Kevin Patullo. New offensive coordinator Sean Mannion-a former NFL quarterback-has already bonded with Hurts over their shared background. “Jalen’s been awesome,” Mannion said. “I really think he can do anything we ask of him. He’s accurate. He’s a great athlete. He really attacks the fundamentals.”

Mannion praised Hurts’ relentless work ethic, noting his detailed film sessions and post-practice grind. “He always asks really thought-provoking questions. He’s detailed and attacks his fundamentals. He’s always a guy who stays after practice and is working on things,” Mannion added. The duo’s chemistry will be tested early, with Hurts set to play under his seventh different play-caller in six-plus pro seasons.

Why does this ranking matter for Jalen Hurts?

Rankings like Gagnon’s underscore Hurts’ standing as a cornerstone asset. The Eagles signed him to a five-year, $255 million extension in April 2023, though only a small portion of the deal remains guaranteed after 2026. That looming contract decision adds urgency to his 2026 performance, especially with roster turnover in the passing game. Hurts’ ability to adapt-despite seven different play-callers-signals his maturity and leadership, traits that could sway future contract talks.

The Eagles’ Week 1 matchup against the Commanders sets the stage for Hurts to prove he’s more than a system product. With Mannion’s quarterback-centric approach, the stage is set for a telling start to the 2026 campaign.