The easiest way to evaluate an NFL quarterback is to watch what happens when the ball is snapped. The throws, the decisions, the pocket movement, and the leadership all become visible once the game begins. What often goes unnoticed, however, is everything a quarterback contributes when he isn't in the huddle. For the Philadelphia Eagles, Jalen Hurts' influenceduring the preseason opener
extended well beyond the stat sheet.Hurts didn't play in the exhibition matchup against theBaltimore Ravens, nor was he expected to, as he joined a lengthy list of starters who were held out as the Eagles prioritized health and evaluation opportunities for younger players. Yet according to offensive coordinator Sean Mannion, Philadelphia's franchise quarterback
remained actively involved throughout the evening.
Mannion was asked what his communication with Hurts looked like during the game as part of a recent media session. He detailed that the veteran quarterback was fully engaged from the sideline and offered a glimpse into the role Hurts played behind the scenes.
"He was on the sideline with the QBs the whole time. Great teammate. He was always around, he was engaged. Between him and [Quarterbacks Coach] Parks [Frazier], there was a lot of resources there to support the quarterbacks on the sideline."
The answer was brief, but it revealed something important about the way the Eagles operate. While Andy Dalton, Tanner McKee, and Cole Payton rotated through game action, they weren't navigating those moments alone. Alongside quarterbacks coach Parks Frazier stood a player who has started a Super Bowl, won playoff games, and spent years mastering the nuances of Philadelphia's offense.
Hurts' value to the organization is naturally tied to what he does on game days, but preseason football often creates opportunities for veteran leaders to contribute in different ways. Young quarterbacks are processing information at a frantic pace. Adjustments arrive quickly. Emotions run high. Mistakes are inevitable. Having another experienced voice available between series can be just as valuable as any coaching point delivered through a headset.
Mannion's comments also align with what teammates and coaches have consistently said about Hurts throughout his Eagles career. His leadership style doesn't always center on loud in-game speeches or public displays. Instead, much of his influence comes through preparation, consistency, and his willingness to invest in those around him.
That investment becomes especially important during the preseason, when players fighting for roster spots are trying to prove they belong. The Eagles are evaluating talent, but they're also developing it. They're working on timing, etcetera. Having Hurts actively engaged in that process creates another resource for a quarterback room that includes veterans and young players at very different stages of their careers.
The Eagles held Hurts out of the preseason opener because they already know what he can do on the field. Still, QB1 cheered just as loudly for Cole Payton's TD pass as anyone else did.
What Mannion's comments revealed is that even when the quarterback isn't playing, he's still helping Philadelphia's offense function. The throws may belong to someone else, but Hurts remains part of the operation, offering guidance, support, and another set of experienced eyes from the sideline.
For a team with championship aspirations, that's a contribution that doesn't show up in the box score but still matters. The Eagles already know what Jalen Hurts can do when the ball is in his hands. What Mannion's comments revealed is that Hurts is just as invested in what happens when it's someone else's turn to lead the offense.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Sean Mannion reveals Jalen Hurts' value and impact from the sideline
