Jalen Hurts injury update: Latest on Eagles' QB concussion ahead of wild-card playoff game

The Philadelphia Eagles appear ready to welcome a key bird back to the nest.

After missing the last two weeks with a concussion that he suffered in Week 16, Jalen Hurts was back on the practice field for Philadelphia on Thursday. It was a big step for the quarterback, who has been in the league's concussion protocol ever since that hit against Washington.

The Eagles are getting set to host a wild-card game against the Green Bay Packers at Lincoln Financial Field on Sunday, but have their sights set on a Super Bowl run. Now that Hurts doesn't appear to be hurting anymore, Philly's offense should get a big boost from their star coming back.

Here's the latest on the Hurts and if he can clear concussion protocol in time for the postseason opener.

Jalen Hurts injury update

Hurts was a full participant in practice on Thursday, according to the Eagles' injury report.

It represented a notable upgrade in participation after a limited session to kick off the practice week on Wednesday. The quarterback notably hasn't cleared the league's concussion protocol, however, meaning there are still steps to take before he can be cleared for Sunday's game.

Based on the trajectory, it would seem that Hurts is trending towards getting clearance on Friday or Saturday, barring any setbacks.

Kenny Pickett, the Eagles' backup quarterback, was listed as a limited participant again on Thursday. If Hurts doesn't gain clearance, Pickett would likely be in line to start against the Packers.

NFL concussion protocol rules

The NFL's concussion protocol contains five-steps that any player diagnosed with a concussion must pass through before being cleared to return.

Here are the five steps, per the NFL:

1. Symptom limited activity

2. Aerobic exercise

3. Football specific exercise

4. Club-based non-contact training drills

5. Full football activity/clearance

Who are the Eagles playing in playoffs?

The Eagles are set to host the Packers in a rematch of their Week 1 game that took place in Brazil. Philadelphia was victorious in that contest, 34-29. Green Bay comes into the game nursing plenty of injuries as well, with QB Jordan Love dealing with an elbow injury in addition to losing WR Christian Watson for the season.

Jalen Hurts stats

Hurts led the Eagles to a 12-3 record in his 15 starts, throwing for 2,903 yards, 18 touchdowns and five interceptions. He posted a career-high completion rate of 68.7% in what was a ground-heavy attack from the Eagles in 2024. Hurts also added 630 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns with his legs.

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Jalen Hurts injury update: Latest on Eagles QB status vs Packers