Jalen Hurts: A Quarterback, A Leader, A Symbol of Influence in 2025

When Jalen Hurts was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, the football world wasn’t quite sure what to expect. Many saw him as a developmental quarterback, a dual-threat prospect who had shown promise in college but might never become more than a gadget player or backup. Fast forward to 2025, and Hurts hasn’t just rewritten his narrative—he’s elevated it beyond sports, landing him a place on TIME’s prestigious list of the 100 Most Influential People of 2025.

Hurts’ influence stretches far beyond his precision on the field or the number of touchdowns he throws. He’s become a voice, a model of resilience, a cultural figure who represents the strength of conviction, character, and quiet leadership. He doesn’t always command the room with volume, but rather with poise, preparation, and presence. And in a world that is increasingly craving authenticity and depth in its heroes, Hurts has proven to be the real deal.

What sets Jalen Hurts apart isn’t just that he’s good at football—it’s how he approaches life. In an NFL landscape where big personalities often dominate headlines, Hurts has forged a unique path defined by humility, intentionality, and emotional intelligence. He doesn’t chase fame, but it finds him because of the way he shows up—every single day—for his team, for his city, and for the people who look up to him.

Hurts’ story is, in many ways, the quintessential modern American sports narrative. Born into a family of coaches in Channelview, Texas, he learned the game from his father, Averion Hurts, who instilled in him the discipline and leadership that would shape his future. After starring at Alabama and later transferring to Oklahoma, Hurts faced both triumph and tribulation on the college stage. His benching during the 2018 National Championship Game in favor of Tua Tagovailoa was a moment many would have seen as a setback. But Hurts responded with grace, stayed committed to the team, and later found his own spotlight with the Sooners.

That stretch—watching him handle adversity, watching him thrive in a new system and nearly win the Heisman Trophy—was an early indication that Hurts was not your average quarterback. He had something intangible, something deeper than mechanics or stats. He had presence, maturity, and an internal compass that never wavered.

By 2022, Hurts had led the Eagles to Super Bowl LVII, an electric performance that, while it ended in defeat, etched his name among the NFL’s elite. But even more striking than his numbers that season—35 total touchdowns, a 14-1 record as a starter—was how his teammates talked about him. Hurts inspired loyalty, not through speeches, but by walking the walk. He stayed late, studied more, took responsibility, and treated every practice like a proving ground. That kind of ethos doesn’t just win games—it builds culture.

His presence in Philadelphia, one of the most demanding and passionate sports cities in America, has been transformative. Eagles fans don’t hand out praise lightly, but Hurts has earned their respect not by pandering, but by performing. He embodies everything Philly values: toughness, resilience, blue-collar work ethic, and heart. His quiet confidence, backed by relentless preparation, is a stabilizing force in a league known for chaos.

Yet what makes Hurts’ inclusion in TIME’s 100 truly significant is what he represents off the field. In an era where athletes are more visible than ever, where their voices are amplified beyond the lines of scrimmage, Hurts has used his platform with precision. He’s spoken candidly about mental toughness, the importance of representation, and the value of consistency over clout. In every interview, every post, every interaction, he brings intentionality. He knows who he is. And that’s rare.

There’s also an authenticity to his leadership that resonates across generations. Hurts isn’t interested in social media gimmicks or building a brand detached from his identity. His brand is who he already is: calm, focused, loyal, and grounded. He wears his faith proudly, attributes success to his teammates, and always seems to steer the conversation away from himself and toward the collective. That’s leadership in its purest form.

One of the more remarkable aspects of his influence is how he inspires without being performative. Hurts doesn’t chase headlines, but when he speaks, people listen. Young athletes across the country see in him a model worth emulating—not just in how to win, but how to carry yourself with purpose. He shows that you can be both competitive and composed, fierce and kind, unrelenting and gracious.

In the 2023 and 2024 seasons, Hurts continued to elevate his game. Though injuries and roster shifts challenged the Eagles at times, his consistency never wavered. Even in losses, his leadership never dipped. He remained steady in the storm—something few quarterbacks his age have managed to do. And beyond the numbers—touchdown passes, QB ratings, win totals—there’s a greater legacy being forged.

Hurts is carving out space for what modern leadership looks like. It’s less about bravado and more about values. Less about being the loudest voice in the room and more about being the most trusted. In a league where external noise can drown out internal focus, Hurts remains grounded. He reminds everyone watching that success isn’t about proving others wrong, but about staying true to who you are.

His teammates often talk about the way he connects with everyone in the locker room. Offensive linemen, receivers, practice squad guys—it doesn’t matter. Hurts treats each person with the same level of respect. He’s not just a quarterback; he’s the tone-setter, the culture-keeper. And that’s a rare thing, even at the NFL level.

Being named one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People is not about popularity. It’s about impact. Hurts’ impact is unmistakable. From the way he changed the narrative around dual-threat quarterbacks, to how he’s inspired a new generation of athletes to lead with heart and humility, to the example he sets every time he steps on the field or in front of a mic—his presence matters.

And that influence is only growing. Corporate brands have taken notice, yes—but Hurts is selective. He aligns only with partners who reflect his values. Philanthropically, he’s supported youth initiatives and educational programs, often without fanfare. He doesn’t need applause—he’s driven by something deeper: legacy.

In a world where it’s easy to be cynical about celebrity and sports fame, Hurts is a refreshing antidote. He reminds us that greatness doesn’t require theatrics. That you can lead with quiet confidence. That true influence comes from consistency, character, and care. He’s not interested in being the loudest—he wants to be the most lasting.

As the 2025 NFL season approaches, Hurts stands as one of the league’s premier quarterbacks—but more importantly, as one of its most essential voices. His journey, still unfolding, continues to be one of hope, growth, and integrity. And in being named to TIME’s list, the world isn’t just recognizing a football player—they’re honoring a man who leads by example, who lifts those around him, and who reminds us that influence, at its best, is rooted in authenticity.

Jalen Hurts may not seek the spotlight, but he’s earned it. And more importantly, he’s using it the right way.