Jalen Hurts’ completion percentage has taken a noticeable dive this season, hitting a concerning 57.8% through five games. It’s a stark contrast to his career average of 64.0%, and it’s got everyone dissecting every single throw and decision. But despite the dip, Eagles offensive coordinator Sean Mannion isn’t ready to hit the panic button.
Sean Mannion Still Believes in Hurts’ Natural Accuracy
Mannion came out swinging this week, backing his quarterback to the hilt. He isn’t viewing the declining numbers as some fundamental flaw or lasting problem for Hurts. In fact, he’s totally confident that Hurts’ natural accuracy is going to show up in the results as the season progresses. Mannion fully expects that completion percentage to start climbing.
When NBC Sports’ Reuben Frank asked about the drop, Mannion was clear: “I don’t think it’s any one thing. I think across the board offensively, we want to keep pushing to be better, and that’s in all phases. That’s run game, pass game. That’s us putting together the best plan possible each week.” He emphasized, “I think he is a naturally very accurate guy, so I’m confident that those numbers will continue to improve.” Mannion believes getting more live game reps will only increase Hurts’ comfort level, week after week. He also noted that Hurts has been making good decisions with the football, even during the uptick in pass attempts in their last game. Mannion was convinced Hurts was directing the ball where it needed to go.
Offensive Struggles and What It Means for Hurts’ Numbers
It’s not just Hurts, though. The Eagles offense has been trying to find consistency, especially with injuries forcing personnel adjustments around their quarterback. Sustaining drives has been a real struggle over these first five games, making every single missed connection feel that much more important.
Mannion made a point to differentiate accuracy from decision-making. While the completion rate is down, he feels Hurts’ decision-making with the ball has generally been good. That distinction is key. The OC is putting some of the responsibility on the overall offensive operation to improve, rather than dumping it all on Hurts’ shoulders. He believes the continued game experience is going to be the biggest factor in Hurts’ comfort and, ultimately, his accuracy.
So, as the Eagles turn their focus from London to the Carolina Panthers, it’s business as usual for the team. Everyone’s looking for that efficiency in the passing game. Can Jalen Hurts live up to his offensive coordinator’s faith? That Panthers game is a huge chance for those numbers to start their climb and prove Mannion’s confidence isn’t misplaced.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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