Roger Goodell says the NFL welcomes an investigation into Jalen Hurts’ medical care, even as the commissioner defended the protocols surrounding the Eagles quarterback’s treatment. Speaking Wednesday, Goodell responded to the NFL Players Association’s request for a full investigation after the league publicly supported Philadelphia’s handling of the situation.
“We welcome that. That’s part of our process,” Goodell said, according to Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports.
The commissioner also expressed confidence in the medical procedures involved.
“I think our protocols were incredibly good there,” Goodell said, according to Mike Garafolo.
Those comments follow the NFLPA’s statement that it was unaware of any league investigation and had previously been
told the NFL did not intend to review Hurts’ care. The union called for a full investigation before drawing conclusions.
Goodell on the Hurts diagnosis and handling of the situation: “I think our protocols were incredibly good there.”
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) October 21, 2026
Adds the league has the “greatest medical advisors and people that are working on the health of our players.” https://t.co/kiEKPAVlBB
The NFL had said the Eagles handled the situation appropriately and that league officials remained in contact with medical personnel during Hurts’ treatment. Hurts played against Jacksonville in London after being diagnosed with a superficial blood clot in his calf. Subsequent testing revealed deep vein thrombosis and blood clots in both lungs. He is clinically stable but is expected to miss the remainder of the season while receiving treatment.
Goodell’s willingness to welcome scrutiny does not resolve the union's central question: What examination supported the league’s initial conclusion? His comments also did not establish that a formal investigation has begun. The next development will be whether the league and union announce a review and explain its scope.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Roger Goodell welcomes a Jalen Hurts investigation, defends NFL protocols
