Jalen Hurts says Eagles will take ‘next-man-up’ approach as injuries force lineup changes before London game
PHILADELPHIA — Jalen Hurts said the Eagles will adopt a next-man-up approach after several offensive starters missed practice with injuries ahead of Sunday’s game in London against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Dave Spadaro of PhiladelphiaEagles.com reported Oct. 8, 2026. Hurts said the offense is preparing with new starters and younger players at multiple positions as it heads to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. He added that he has confidence in the players working in practice and that the week’s work will determine how much the unit improves.
Hurts acknowledged the team will rely on new faces across the lineup, including a new left guard, a rookie making a second start at right tackle and different personnel at running back, while several young receivers receive increased opportunities. He said the tight end spot has not looked as expected since training camp and the group is focused on building cohesion. “I feel good about the guys that we have,” Hurts said at his weekly press conference at the Jefferson Health Training Complex.
The Eagles face notable absences heading into the London trip. Running back Tank Bigsby is on injured reserve, Saquon Barkley has not practiced because of a hamstring issue, and wide receivers DeVonta Smith and Hollywood Brown remained on the practice sidelines with hamstring and ankle injuries, respectively. Tight end Dallas Goedert practiced on a limited basis Wednesday as he continued to rehabilitate a knee ailment, and the club has added urgency to break a two-game losing streak despite the personnel changes.
Hurts said the changes reflect the nature of the NFL and emphasized the need for persistence, resilience and shared commitment. “This is when you find out what you have,” he said, adding that players will show how they respond to adversity and how they show up to work each day. He said he is leading by example as the team works to “lock arms” and follow coach Nick Sirianni’s direction to get results. “Next-man-up mentality. Continue to build,” Hurts said, calling persistence and continued conversations essential to putting the best product on the field.
NFL Sports Blog Take
The Eagles will face an important depth test in London with multiple starters unavailable. The offense will be judged on whether backups and young players can execute and protect Hurts while maintaining tempo and limiting turnovers. Hurts’ emphasis on practice work and cohesion aligns with the club’s need to stabilize performance and end the two-game slide.
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