Kenny Pickett makes feelings clear about starting for Eagles amid Jalen Hurts' concussion recovery
Philadelphia Eagles backup quarterback Kenny Pickett declared himself "ready to go" for Sunday's pivotal clash against the Dallas Cowboys. His statement carries extra weight as Philadelphia's rushing offense faces its biggest test of the season.
The stakes are immense for Philadelphia's second-string quarterback. Pickett steps in for Jalen Hurts, who remains in concussion protocol after a first-quarter collision with linebacker Frankie Luvu during last Sunday's game.
At the Eagles' practice facility on Thursday, Pickett addressed the media about his preparation. He practiced fully despite the rib injury from last week's 36-33 loss to the Commanders.
"I don't try to get too caught up into it because there is so much that goes into playing quarterback," Pickett said. "I just want to focus on doing my job each play and ... we'll see what happens in the fourth quarter. That's really my focus right now, being as prepared as possible."
The quarterback swap arrives at a critical moment. The Eagles have run for over 100 yards in all 15 games this season – a club record. Their 2,818 rushing yards lead the NFL and surpass their previous team record of 2,715 set in 2021.
Ground game faces new challenge as Kenny Pickett steps in
The Eagles' run-heavy offense might need retooling without Jalen Hurts' 630 rushing yards. Last week offered a preview: Saquon Barkley managed just 41 yards in three quarters after Hurts' exit.
"I've had a heavy workload all year," Barkley said about potentially increased carries on Thursday. "Whatever it takes to help the team win, I'm willing to do. That's always my mindset whether it's five carries or 35 carries."
The offensive line shoulders extra responsibility. Center Cam Jurgens emphasized improvement over analysis on Thursday.
"You don't want to get caught up in lessons. You just treat it like tomorrow's the next day and you just get better doing the same thing you've been doing," Jurgens said.
Coach Nick Sirianni maintains strict protocol regarding Hurts.
"When you're in concussion protocol, I have no say in that and Jalen has no say in that. That's completely up to the doctors, as it should be," the coach said.
With sixth-round pick Tanner McKee ready as backup, Kenny Pickett plans to wear extra rib padding on Sunday. The Eagles can still claim the division title with a win over Dallas or a Commanders loss to Atlanta.