Amid the sweltering heat of the Philadelphia Eagles’ organized team activities (OTAs), an unexpected narrative is emerging, challenging the established hierarchy. Kenny Pickett, primarily known as a backup quarterback, has unexpectedly outshone Jalen Hurts, the Eagles’ star quarterback and one of the highest-paid players in the NFL.
This development, as reported by Ed Kracz from Eagles Today, has stirred both concern and excitement within the team’s fanbase and coaching staff. During the recent practice sessions, Pickett displayed an impressive form, marked by consistency and precision.
Kracz’s “overreactions” column highlights that “The backup quarterback looked sharp, sharper than Jalen Hurts, to be honest.” Pickett’s accurate deliveries, especially compared to Hurts’ performance, suggest that the Eagles might have a reliable alternative should their main gunslinger falter. This revelation comes at a critical time when Hurts is expected to elevate his game following a mixed 2023 season.
Jalen Hurts Under Pressure
On the flip side, Jalen Hurts seems to be facing difficulties in finding his rhythm this spring. Despite a lucrative $51 million annual contract reflecting immense trust and investment from the Eagles, Hurts has not yet lived up to expectations during OTAs.
Brooks Kubena of The Athletic reports a troubling lack of significant plays from Hurts, who also suffered multiple interceptions in the sessions open to the media. “Hurts hasn’t completed an explosive pass of significance,” Kubena noted, emphasizing a concerning trend in Hurts‘ preseason preparations.
Moreover, the interceptions Hurts threw during Thursday’s drills signify potential issues in decision-making under pressure. The interceptions, one of which was a pick-six, highlight vulnerabilities that could be exploited by opposing teams during the regular season. Such performances, if they continue, could lead to restless nights for both the coaching staff and the Eagles’ passionate fanbase.
Fluctuating Fortunes of Kenny Pickett
Despite his standout performance, it’s crucial to acknowledge that Kenny Pickett’s journey during OTAs has not been entirely smooth. Following a week of praise, Pickett encountered challenges of his own. As per Brooks Kubena’s later updates, Pickett’s sharpness waned during the most recent practices.
Kubena describes a particular moment where Pickett “overthrew tight end Albert Okwuegbunam on a short out to the right sideline,” showcasing that consistency remains an area for improvement for the young quarterback.
Kenny Pickett is now 5-1 in primetime games. He shines the brightest when the lights are on him pic.twitter.com/Jt0mufvjIL
— Dmitri (@DAcrisure) September 25, 2023
Philadelphia Eagles’ Defensive Prowess
Amidst the quarterback drama, the Eagles’ defense has been a silver lining, showing promising signs of dominance. The defensive unit has effectively disrupted plays and created turnovers, proving to be a formidable force against both Hurts and Pickett. Such performances are vital for the team’s overall balance and will be crucial in maintaining competitiveness throughout the upcoming season.
Philadelphia Eagles Implications for the Regular Season
As the Eagles continue their OTAs and head toward the regular season, the performances of both Jalen Hurts and Kenny Pickett will be under intense scrutiny. For Hurts, the upcoming months are crucial to regaining his near-MVP form from 2022 and justifying his hefty contract.
For Pickett, the challenge will be to prove that his recent successes are not just fleeting moments but signs of a potential future leader. Eagles fans, while currently on edge, have reasons to remain hopeful.
If Hurts can recalibrate and return to form, and Pickett continues to develop, the Eagles could possess one of the most dynamic quarterback duos in the league. However, only time will tell if these OTA developments will translate into regular-season success.
Source: yardbarker
