A moment of honor for Philadelphia’s quiet warrior

In a moment that cements his place not only as an elite athlete but as a true cultural figure, Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts has been officially named by TIME magazine as one of the 100 Most Influential People in Sports. The announcement, released earlier this morning, recognizes Hurts for his leadership, humility, and his ability to inspire both on and off the football field.

TIME’s editors praised Hurts for embodying “the modern ideal of an athlete-leader — grounded in integrity, driven by excellence, and unwavering in his purpose.” The honor puts Hurts among an elite list that includes global icons such as LeBron James, Serena Williams, Lionel Messi, and Patrick Mahomes.

“Leadership isn’t about being perfect,” Hurts told reporters after learning of the recognition. “It’s about serving others, staying true to who you are, and showing up with purpose every single day.”

The rise of a leader

For many who have followed Jalen Hurts’s journey, this moment feels like the natural culmination of years of relentless effort and quiet resilience. From his early college days at Alabama, where he was benched in the national championship game, to his eventual resurgence at Oklahoma, and later his rise as the face of the Philadelphia Eagles, Hurts’s story has been one defined by perseverance.

When he entered the NFL in 2020, critics doubted whether he could ever become a true franchise quarterback. Four years later, Hurts has silenced those doubts — not through loud proclamations, but through his performance, his work ethic, and his unwavering composure.

Teammates describe him as a “rock” — calm under pressure, brutally disciplined, and profoundly dedicated to his craft. Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni once said,

“He’s the kind of player who makes everyone around him better — not because he demands it, but because he inspires it.”

More than a quarterback

But what truly sets Hurts apart — and what TIME’s editors emphasized in their feature — is that his influence reaches far beyond the sidelines. Off the field, Hurts has become a powerful voice for empowerment, education, and community uplift.

Through his foundation, The Hurts Foundation, he has funded scholarships, youth mentorship programs, and initiatives aimed at empowering underprivileged communities in both Philadelphia and his home state of Texas.

Earlier this year, Hurts partnered with Girls Inc. to launch a national leadership program for young women, a project he described as “one of the proudest moments of my life.”

“When you realize the platform you have, you can’t take it lightly,” Hurts said during a recent ESPN interview. “It’s not just about playing football — it’s about leaving something that lasts.”

A voice that resonates in difficult times

Hurts has also earned respect for the way he handles adversity and uses his voice with intention. During some of the NFL’s most polarizing moments in recent years — from social justice protests to debates about mental health and equality — Hurts has remained a steady, empathetic presence.

Rather than taking sides or fueling controversy, he has spoken in ways that unify. In 2023, after a difficult playoff loss, he reminded fans that “failure is never final if faith remains.” The line quickly went viral, quoted across social media and even printed on motivational posters in schools and gyms.

TIME’s profile describes Hurts as “the rare modern athlete who leads through both strength and stillness.”

The making of an icon

Part of what makes Hurts’s story so remarkable is the way he balances humility with ambition. Despite his growing fame — endorsement deals with brands like Beats by Dre, Jordan Brand, and Gillette — he remains grounded.

Those close to him describe a man of quiet habits: early mornings at the gym, meticulous study of game tape, and evenings spent reading or mentoring.

“I’ve never seen anyone so focused on being better every day,” said A.J. Brown, his teammate and close friend. “Jalen doesn’t chase spotlight — the spotlight chases him.”

His signature phrase, “Keep the main thing the main thing,” has become a mantra for athletes and fans alike — a reminder of the power of purpose amid chaos.

A symbol for a new generation

Hurts represents something deeper for the next generation of athletes. In an era where fame can be fleeting and authenticity often questioned, he has built a brand rooted in consistency and moral clarity.

He is both fierce and humble — a man unshaken by fame, focused on growth, and devoted to using his influence responsibly. His presence has inspired a wave of young players to focus not just on performance, but on personal values.

“Jalen Hurts is proof that success doesn’t have to change your character,” wrote TIME senior editor Rachel Evers in her piece accompanying the announcement. “In a world obsessed with spectacle, he reminds us that real greatness is often quiet.”

Philadelphia celebrates

In Philadelphia, the news of Hurts’s recognition was met with widespread celebration. Fans gathered online to share stories of his generosity and leadership, with hashtags like #HurtsForThePeople and #TIME100Hurts trending across social media.

Mayor Cherelle Parker even issued a congratulatory statement:

“Jalen Hurts represents the very best of Philadelphia — resilient, humble, and driven by heart. His influence extends far beyond the game, and this city couldn’t be prouder.”

At Lincoln Financial Field, banners honoring Hurts’s achievement are expected to be displayed ahead of the Eagles’ next home game. Local news outlets have called it “a historic moment not just for Jalen Hurts, but for Philadelphia sports culture.”

A lasting legacy in motion

As Hurts continues to shape his legacy, one thing is clear: this recognition is not a culmination, but a continuation. Whether leading the Eagles to victory, mentoring young athletes, or inspiring millions through his example, Jalen Hurts has become a symbol of what modern athletic greatness truly looks like.

He stands at the intersection of sportsmanship, service, and soul — proving that influence isn’t just measured in trophies or touchdowns, but in the lives one touches along the way.

“Football is temporary,” Hurts reflected in a recent interview. “But the impact you make on people — that’s what lasts forever.”