Before training camp, Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts shares important news.

As the 2025 NFL season approaches, anticipation surrounding the Philadelphia Eagles is at an all-time high. With the team coming off a dramatic Super Bowl run and the emergence of their star quarterback, Jalen Hurts, the pressure is on for the Eagles to continue their success. However, it wasn’t the usual training camp headlines that dominated the news cycle recently, but rather Hurts himself who made waves with a major personal announcement before the start of training camp. The timing of Hurts’ decision to share important news with the public caught many off guard, but it also sheds light on his growth as both a player and a leader.

Before diving into the announcement, it’s important to understand just how far Hurts has come in his NFL career. Selected in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, Hurts wasn’t always seen as the future face of the franchise. Coming into the league with some uncertainty surrounding his long-term prospects, Hurts quickly proved his worth through his work ethic, resilience, and ability to lead the Eagles offense to new heights.

In just his second season, Hurts helped guide the Eagles to the NFC Championship game and solidified his place as one of the NFL’s most promising quarterbacks. Known for his dual-threat abilities, Hurts was as effective with his legs as he was with his arm, making him a nightmare for defenses. His leadership in the locker room was equally impressive, with veterans and young players alike praising his poise, maturity, and work ethic.

But Hurts’ journey has been far from easy. After starting at Alabama, he was benched in favor of Tua Tagovailoa during the National Championship game. He transferred to Oklahoma, where he put together one of the most impressive college seasons in recent memory. Despite all of his college accomplishments, Hurts still faced questions about his ability to translate that success to the NFL. Over the course of his career, he has answered those questions in resounding fashion, and now, he stands as one of the league’s most respected young quarterbacks.

As the start of training camp draws near, Hurts shocked both his teammates and fans when he shared a personal announcement that was not directly related to his on-field preparations. In an emotional press conference, Hurts revealed that he was preparing to embark on a new chapter in his life off the field, which would have significant implications for his future and that of his family.

“I’ve always believed in the power of family and the importance of taking care of not just your body, but your mind and soul as well,” Hurts began, his voice steady but laced with emotion. “This isn’t just about football. This is about life. And I want to share something that’s been a big part of my journey over the past year.”

The quarterback revealed that he had recently become a partner in a new initiative focused on providing mentorship to young athletes from underprivileged communities. The program, which had been in development for months, would focus on giving at-risk youth access to education, mental health resources, and training to help them succeed both in sports and life. Hurts emphasized that he had been deeply inspired by his own experiences growing up and wanted to give back in a way that could help create lasting change in the lives of young people.

“I’ve been blessed with a platform to do more than just play football,” Hurts said. “This is about giving kids the resources and guidance they need to make the right decisions. To stay on the right track, whether it’s in sports or life. It’s my way of honoring the people who’ve helped me become the man I am today.”

Hurts’ announcement is more than just a typical off-the-field charity project. It speaks to his deeper understanding of what it means to be a leader, not only for the Eagles but for the community. His commitment to mentoring young athletes reflects a maturation in Hurts’ personal life, one that aligns with his values of hard work, resilience, and community.

For Hurts, football has always been about more than just the game. Whether he’s giving a heartfelt speech to his teammates or working on his physical and mental development, Hurts is always thinking of ways to inspire those around him. This announcement is no different. It reflects the growth of a player who understands the importance of legacy and impact.

The initiative Hurts has partnered with is expected to include scholarships, workshops, and access to mental health services for young athletes in the Philadelphia area. Hurts, who has often spoken about his own struggles with mental toughness and personal growth, has recognized the importance of addressing mental health in sports. The initiative will have a strong focus on providing counseling and emotional support to athletes, something Hurts believes is often overlooked in the hyper-competitive world of sports.

“Growing up, there weren’t a lot of resources available to me when it came to mental health,” Hurts explained. “But I’ve learned through my journey that mental toughness is just as important as physical toughness. This program is about building the whole person—mind, body, and soul.”

The announcement immediately drew support from Hurts’ teammates and coaches. Head coach Nick Sirianni, known for his emphasis on leadership and team chemistry, expressed his admiration for Hurts’ decision to make such a meaningful impact off the field.

“Jalen is a leader in every sense of the word,” Sirianni said. “What he’s doing with this program shows that he cares about more than just football. He cares about people, and he’s always looking for ways to improve the lives of those around him. He’s a role model, not just for our team but for the entire city of Philadelphia.”

Several of Hurts’ teammates also took to social media to express their pride and admiration for their quarterback. Star wide receiver A.J. Brown tweeted, “Jalen’s a leader, not just on the field but in life. Proud of him for doing this and showing what true leadership looks like.”

Hurts’ announcement was also met with an outpouring of support from the Eagles’ fanbase, many of whom were already inspired by Hurts’ work ethic and character. Fans praised Hurts for his humility and dedication to making a positive impact, with many commenting that his leadership off the field only further cemented his place as the future of the franchise.

While Hurts’ leadership on the field is already well-established, his impact off the field is equally important. As the quarterback of the Philadelphia Eagles, Hurts has the ability to influence his teammates in ways that go beyond the Xs and Os. His work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to handle pressure have earned him the respect of his peers. But it is his character and commitment to others that set him apart.

Hurts’ involvement in the mentorship program is just one example of how he’s using his platform to affect change. Over the past year, Hurts has also been vocal about the importance of education, diversity, and inclusivity in sports. His passion for helping young people navigate their challenges and succeed in both their athletic and personal lives is evident in every step he takes.

The mentorship initiative has already begun to make waves in the community, with several prominent figures in Philadelphia’s sports world offering their support. The program has partnered with local schools, youth organizations, and mental health professionals to create a comprehensive support system for young athletes. Hurts has been directly involved in the planning and development stages, ensuring that the program aligns with his values and vision.

“Football is what I do,” Hurts said. “But who I am goes beyond that. This is my way of paying it forward.”

As Hurts enters his fourth season with the Eagles, his leadership, both on and off the field, will be crucial to the team’s success in 2025. Coming off a heartbreaking Super Bowl loss, the Eagles are looking to rebound and make another championship push. But Hurts’ off-field endeavors will also have a profound impact on the team’s culture. His commitment to personal growth and giving back to the community reflects the kind of character the Eagles will need as they chase another title.

Hurts’ ability to manage both his professional and personal life with such poise sets a strong example for his teammates. His work ethic and determination to continually improve are qualities that all players, young and old, can look up to. In a locker room that includes both seasoned veterans and rising stars, Hurts’ ability to lead by example is invaluable.

Jalen Hurts’ announcement before training camp is a reminder that the impact of a professional athlete goes far beyond their performance on the field. Hurts is building a legacy not just as an exceptional quarterback but as a leader who cares deeply about the people and communities around him. His decision to focus on mentoring and empowering the next generation of athletes speaks to his maturity and sense of purpose.

As the 2025 season kicks off, the Eagles are more than just a football team—they’re a community. And at the heart of that community is Jalen Hurts, a quarterback who is ready to lead, inspire, and make a difference in the lives of others.