Philly fans hold on to your cheesesteaks—things just got real. I mean, at some point or the other, their luck had to run dry, right? Soaring at 12-3 and leading the NFC East, the Eagles are now facing the storm. Jalen Hurts, their Eagle under center, is out for the week 17 clash against the Cowboys. It’s good because Nick Sirianni has the best time to analyze his players’ “next-man-up” ahead of the postseason.

Here’s a fun twist: Kenny Pickett, the guy who grew up dreaming of midnight green glory, is stepping in. “Kenny Pickett, the boy who grew up an Eagles fan, now has a chance to help that team clinch an NFC East title today vs. the Dallas Cowboys,” reported Adam Schefter. If that’s not poetic football symmetry, what is?

Hurts’ absence is no minor setback. He’s still in concussion protocol after a brutal hit in last week’s loss to Washington. Sirianni kept it straightforward, saying, “It’s going to be tough for [Hurts] to make it this week.” And just like that, Pickett’s name was inked into the starting lineup.

So now, it’s Pickett’s turn to prove he can handle the heat. Can the Eagles keep flying high, or will the Cowboys clip their wings? We can’t deny the latter at this point, either. Dallas is on a two-game winning streak and is looking to set records straight.

However, that’s where Jalen could have hurt the Cowboys. Alas, the concussion protocols are such that he cannot really suit up in time. In Week 16, Hurts took a tough hit on a quarterback draw, slamming his head into the turf after a 13-yard scramble. Despite giving a thumbs-up to the umpire, they sent him off for evaluation and later ruled out with a concussion.

Now, until Hurts returns, Pickett must hold down the fort. No two ways about it. But when can Philly expect to see its #1 back on the gridiron?

Jalen Hurts: The consistent Eagle under center

Jalen Hurts isn’t just the heartbeat of Philly’s offense; he’s the guy defenses stay up late worrying about. With a passer rating of 103.7, 2,903 yards, 18 touchdowns, and just five picks this season, he’s been Mr. Dependable. But for now, Hurts is sidelined, stuck in the NFL’s concussion protocol. It’s week 17, and he’s out—no debates, no exceptions. The big question: For how long?

Concussions aren’t new in the NFL, and they don’t play favorites. Take Tua Tagovailoa earlier this season—he missed four games after a head injury in week 2. Trevor Lawrence? He hit IR after a week 13 concussion. Hurts’ timeline? That depends on his progress through the league’s five-step protocol. It’s all about baby steps: from light activity to full contact. He’s still got hurdles to clear. So, the Eagles Nation can expect him back for the postseason.

Remember week 8? Hurts lit up the Bengals with 236 passing yards, a TD, and three rushing scores. Social media couldn’t get enough. The guy doesn’t just play; he puts on a show. But with Hurts out, the Eagles need Kenny Pickett to channel his inner underdog. Sirianni’s got faith, but does Pickett have the spark to keep Philly in rhythm?

Pickett’s season so far? It’s been rocky—a 68.1 passer rating with flashes of potential. He’s learning Philly’s system, and his 143-yard, one-touchdown game against Washington showed signs of life. Now, he’s got the keys to an offense that leans on Saquon Barkley’s legs and DeVonta Smith’s hands. Can he hold the line until Hurts returns?

This could be a blessing in disguise for Philly. Sirianni sees opportunity in adversity, and Pickett has a shot to prove he’s more than a benchwarmer. With the playoffs looming, it’s all hands on deck. One thing’s certain: Hurts’ absence changes the game, but Philly’s not about to fold.