Eagles players respond to Jalen Hurts, Nick Sirianni rumors

The Philadelphia Eagles became the subjects of numerous offseason headlines following their collapse that prematurely ended what was once a promising 2023 season.

Specifically, the leadership style of quarterback Jalen Hurts and Hurts' relationship with head coach Nick Sirianni came into question.

"Football is back," Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown said about a recent story regarding an alleged "disconnect" between Hurts and Sirianni, via Bob Brookover of NJ Advance Media for NJ.com. "Football is definitely back. It’s all part of it, so you just roll with the punches."

After the 2023 Eagles fell from 10-1 to 11-6 before they became a one-and-done playoff team, whispers emerged that "Hurts should have been a better leader" considering he signed a five-year contract extension reportedly worth up to $255M with $179.3M guaranteed the previous spring. Multiple teammates have since come to Hurts' defense, and running back Saquon Barkley referred to his new QB1 as "a natural-born leader" on Wednesday.

Barkley signed with the Eagles this past March.

"It doesn’t feel forced," Barkley continued. "It just comes natural to him. When he’s in that huddle and when he’s breaking us down before and after (practice) and even with his work ethic. It’s a pleasure to see that."

Sirianni and Hurts insisted on Wednesday they are "in a great place" after it was reported their relationship "is still a work in progress." Hurts understands many eyes will be on him considering he plays the most important position in North American professional sports.

"You’re the guy that gets all the attention and has all the pressure," Hurts explained. "You’ve got to be your biggest critic. Nothing else really matters. It’s just about going out there and trying to do your job to the best of your ability every day and I do that with a passion. I know what’s important to this team, and I know what’s important to this city and most important I know what’s important to me. All that matters is winning."

Sirianni reportedly is on the hot seat with former New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick looking to return to the sidelines next year. Hurts' play and demeanor ultimately could determine if Eagles general manager Howie Roseman calls Belichick before 2024 comes to an end.

"Now actually being in the locker room and in the weight room and on the field with these guys you can actually see what they’re able to bring and it starts with Jalen," Barkley added during his comments. "It’s special and I’m happy to be a part of it."