Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts’ reported diagnosis of blood clots in both lungs is drawing attention to a potentially life-threatening condition that can affect young adults, including people who appear otherwise healthy.
The 28-year-old quarterback’s diagnosis was announced on October 19, 2026, by the Eagles and his agent, Nicole Lynn, according to the supplied report. The condition is expected to sideline him for the remainder of the NFL season.
Hurts’ medical situation has also renewed attention on research showing that Black Americans experience higher rates of venous blood clots than white Americans, with studies indicating that the disparity also affects younger age groups.
What happened to Jalen Hurts?
According to the report, Hurts initially sustained an injury to his left calf after being cleated during the Eagles’ October 4 game against the Los Angeles Rams. Doctors reportedly identified a superficial blood clot and subsequently cleared him to play against the Jacksonville Jaguars in London on October 11.
Follow-up testing later revealed a more serious condition: blood clots in both lungs, known medically as bilateral pulmonary embolism.
A pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot, often originating in a deep vein in the leg, travels through the bloodstream and blocks an artery in the lungs. The blockage can restrict blood flow and reduce oxygen levels, making the condition potentially fatal without prompt treatment.
The report states that Hurts was in stable condition and expected to recover without long-term complications. His treatment includes blood thinners, and he is expected to avoid contact football while recovering.
Who is at risk of developing blood clots?
Blood clots can affect people of different ages. Although the risk generally increases with age, younger adults are not immune, and certain medical conditions, injuries and lifestyle factors can raise the likelihood of developing a clot.
Research cited by the National Blood Clot Alliance indicates that Black Americans face a higher risk of venous thromboembolism than white Americans. One published study also examined racial differences in venous thromboembolism among younger adults, highlighting that the disparity is not limited to older populations.
These findings do not mean that every Black person faces the same level of risk. Individual risk depends on a combination of factors, including medical history, inherited predisposition, mobility, injury and other health conditions.
Why are Black Americans disproportionately affected?
Researchers have identified several possible contributors to racial disparities in blood clot outcomes. These include differences in the prevalence of certain underlying health conditions, access to healthcare, environmental exposures and other social determinants of health.
Inherited factors can also influence an individual’s risk, but race alone does not explain every case, and the reasons for the observed disparities are complex.
Other established risk factors include prolonged immobility, surgery, serious injuries, smoking, excess weight, pregnancy, certain hormone-based medications and a personal or family history of blood clots.
Hurts’ reported diagnosis highlights the importance of considering blood clots when symptoms arise, rather than assuming the condition affects only older people or those with obvious health problems.
How can people reduce their risk?
Preventive measures depend on an individual’s circumstances and medical history. Staying active, moving regularly during long periods of sitting and discussing personal risk factors with a healthcare professional can help reduce risk.
During long journeys, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends moving around periodically when possible and exercising the legs while seated. People recovering from surgery, hospitalisation or serious injuries may need additional preventive measures prescribed by their healthcare providers.
Medication should not be started solely to prevent blood clots without medical advice, because blood thinners can cause serious bleeding.
Recognising the warning signs
Deep vein thrombosis can cause swelling, pain or tenderness, warmth and skin discoloration, usually in one leg. Some people, however, experience no noticeable symptoms.
A pulmonary embolism may cause sudden difficulty breathing, chest pain that worsens with deep breathing, a rapid heartbeat, coughing up blood or fainting.
Sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing up blood or fainting requires immediate emergency medical attention. A suspected blood clot should not be dismissed as a routine muscle strain, particularly when symptoms are unexplained or occur alongside known risk factors.
Hurts’ reported diagnosis is a reminder that blood clots can affect younger adults and that recognising warning signs matters. Understanding personal risk factors, seeking medical attention when symptoms appear and following professional advice can help people respond promptly to a potentially serious condition.
