Drew Brees wanted Jalen Hurts to be more aggressive.
During Fox’s broadcast of the Eagles’ Week 2 game against the Titans on Sunday, the former Saints star criticized Hurts after the Super Bowl-winning quarterback slid just short of the first-down marker instead of challenging several defenders.
“I was hyping up Jalen Hurts, and now, I’m going to get on him,” Brees said. “Lower your shoulder and go get the first down.”
The play came on third-and-6 in the second quarter. Hurts scrambled and appeared to have an opportunity to fight for the additional yardage, but he instead gave himself up well before the marker, setting up a fourth-and-3.
Brees was clearly unimpressed with the decision.
“They’re going to mark the ball at the start of the slide, not where you end the slide,” Brees said as Fox’s broadcast moved from the replay back to live action.
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He added, “It’s not a 4th and 1, it’s a 4th and 3.”
The criticism stood out given Hurts’ reputation as a dangerous rushing quarterback. Still, he has also faced questions at times over whether his approach is too conservative.
Former Eagles head coach Dick Vermeil raised similar concerns about Hurts’ aggressiveness last season.
“I would say be who you are and not restrict him from running, because defensive line pressure can create good quarterback draws,” Vermeil said of Hurts last season. He later added, “I really believe the more time he touches it, the less man-to-man coverage you get the next time around.”
Hurts ultimately delivered when it mattered most, connecting with receiver Darius Cooper in the final seconds to complete a 24-20 comeback victory over the underdog Titans.
He finished the game 26 of 37 passing for 264 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions.
Hurts also ran for 16 yards on five carries as Philadelphia secured its first road win of the season and improved to 2-0.