Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts has signed a historic contract worth $255 million over five years, making him the highest-earning player in NFL history at 24 years old on 18th April 2023. The contract includes $179.3 million in guarantees, with $110 million guaranteed upon signing, and also features the first no-trade clause in the team’s history. Although, months before this big news, Hurts opened up about Michael Jordan and his significance in his life. 

Hurts was drafted by the Eagles in the second round of the 2020 NFL draft and has already made significant achievements in his career, including appearances in the playoffs, Pro-Bowl and All-Pro selections, and a Super Bowl appearance. The previous record for the highest annual contract value was held by Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes. His interview in January serves as a true testimony of his admiration for MJ. 

Significance of Michael Jordan in Jalen Hurts’ life

Michael Jordan is one of Jalen Hurts’ idols, and his passion for basketball goes beyond the court. Months before signing his $225 million contract, Hurts discussed his admiration for Jordan’s fiercely competitive nature and determination to win at all costs in an interview with The Athletic. 

Hurts has a poster of Jordan in his locker room that reads, “Some people want it to happen, some wish it would happen, and others make it happen.” This quote embodies the mindset of a winner, and it’s clear that Hurts is determined to make things happen for himself and his team. He also owns a Kobe Bryant shirt, which he has worn multiple times during interviews.

Hurts celebrated his team’s victory in the NFC Championship game by wearing a pair of Jordan 12s and smoking a cigar, reminiscent of Jordan’s famous cigar-smoking celebrations after winning championships. Hurts’ passion for the game and his idol Jordan is evident in everything he does, and it’s clear that he’s not just playing for the paycheck.

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Jalen Hurts praises Michael Jordan’s competitive spirit and compares him to Muhammad Ali

In his interview with The Athletic, Hurts also praised Jordan’s ability to overcome adversity and his relentless competitiveness. He compared Jordan to another sports legend, Muhammad Ali. He said, “I think MJ, along with Muhammad Ali, is one of the most transcendent, rare type of guys that have played sports. His ability was before his time. He was a relentless competitor. He overcame adversities. He just had an aura to himself. I’ve always admired that.”

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Hurts agreed to a five-year, $255 million contract with the Eagles, demonstrating how much his love for the game and appreciation for Jordan’s spirit of competition has paid off. According to the NFL, he now holds the record for the player with the highest yearly salary in league history at the age of 24.