Joyner Defends Hurts After McKee's Strong Week 18
Former Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Seth Joyner strongly rebuked critics of quarterback Jalen Hurts following a standout performance by Tanner McKee in Week 18. Joyner, appearing on his podcast, expressed frustration with the ongoing criticism of Hurts, suggesting McKee’s impressive showing shouldn’t overshadow Hurts’ overall contributions.
McKee, filling in for an injured Hurts in the Eagles’ final game of the regular season, delivered a notable performance, showcasing his potential and sparking conversations about the team's quarterback situation. While McKee’s performance was undeniably strong, Joyner believes it’s an overreaction to use it as justification for dismissing Hurts' abilities.
Joyner emphasized Hurts’ significant impact on the Eagles' success throughout the season, highlighting his dual-threat capabilities and leadership qualities. He argued that a single game, particularly one where the starting quarterback is sidelined, isn't sufficient to invalidate the substantial body of work Hurts has produced. The veteran linebacker suggested that the detractors’ perspective lacked a balanced assessment of Hurts’ overall value to the team.
The comments come at a time when the Eagles are preparing for a playoff run, and the health and performance of their quarterback are paramount. While McKee’s performance provides a glimpse of future possibilities, Joyner’s perspective underscores the importance of recognizing and appreciating the contributions of the established starter, Jalen Hurts, especially as the team navigates the pressures of the postseason.
