Following an impressive performance in the 2022 NFL season, Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts has signed a long-term contract extension with the team. The five-year, $255 million contract includes a guaranteed $179.3 million as well as a no-trade clause, making him the highest-paid player in history. This is also the first time in Eagles franchise history that a player's contract includes a no-trade clause.
Hurts was the No. 53 overall pick in the 2020 NFL draft, and this was his first offseason in which he was eligible to sign an extension. Prior to the 2022 season, there were concerns about Hurts' long-term viability as the Eagles' quarterback. Despite making the playoffs in his first full year as a starter in 2021, he struggled as a passer.
However, during the offseason, Eagles general manager Howie Roseman took steps to support Hurts, acquiring star wide receiver A.J. Brown in a draft-day trade with the Tennessee Titans to pair with DeVonta Smith. Hurts blossomed into one of the NFL's best all-around quarterbacks, amassing 3,701 yards, 22 touchdowns, and a 66.5 completion percentage in his rookie season. He was also one of the best running quarterbacks in the NFL, having rushed for 1,544 yards and 23 touchdowns since the start of the 2021 season.
Despite missing two games late in the season due to a shoulder injury, Hurts put up career-high numbers in 2022. The Eagles set a franchise record with 14 victories and captured the NFC East for the first time in three years. For the first time since 2017, they were the No. 1 seed in the playoffs, and Hurts finished second in MVP voting to Patrick Mahomes. Hurts had arguably the best game of his career in the Super Bowl, finishing with 304 yards and one touchdown passing, 70 rushing yards, and three touchdowns on the ground.
Last season, the Eagles' offense ranked third in points scored and Football Outsiders' DVOA, and Hurts' improved statistical performance and advanced metrics demonstrated that he was performing well when asked to throw the ball. This long-term contract extension demonstrates the Eagles' confidence in Hurts as their long-term quarterback.