Report: Jalen Hurts downgraded to questionable vs. Seahawks, Kelee Ringo to start at CB

It might be Marcus Mariota time for the Eagles.

Following yesterday’s reports of Jalen Hurts dealing with an illness, Philadelphia’s star QB has been downgraded to questionable for Monday night vs. Seattle after his sickness worsened overnight.

Eagles are downgrading QB Jalen Hurts to questionable for Monday night’s game in Seattle after his sickness worsened overnight, per a source.

Hurts still is harboring hopes of playing Monday night, and is traveling to Seattle separately from the team so as to try not get anyone… pic.twitter.com/fdtOTgRWUR

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 17, 2023

Hurts is traveling separately as a precaution and still hopes to play, per reports. Tomorrow’s matchup was originally scheduled for Sunday before being flexed to Monday night, giving Hurts additional time to recover.

Should Hurts be unable to play, Marcus Mariota would get the start under center. The nine-year vet didn’t inspire much confidence during preseason, completing 59% of his passes for no touchdowns and an interception in three appearances. Mariota went 2-3 for 16 yards before Hurts returned from concussion protocol last week vs. San Francisco.

Jalen Hurts missed two games late last season due to a shoulder injury — Philly lost both. Coming off two straight blowout defeats, the Eagles can’t afford another loss with the No. 1 seed still within reach.

As for Seattle, QB Geno Smith will be a game-decision due to his groin injury, and there’s a ‘real chance’ Drew Lock could start, per reports.

The Eagles are also dealing with injuries defensively. With CB Darius Slay undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery this week, fourth-round rookie Kelee Ringo is slated to start outside in his place. Newley-acquired Shaq Leonard will start for the injured Zach Cunningham (knee).

Despite losing the last two weeks, the Eagles can still win the NFC East if they win their four remaining games. They can clinch a playoff berth with a win over Seattle on Monday night.

>> Read More: Eagles effectively make Matt Patricia their new DC, move Sean Desai to the box

#Eagles updated playoff clinching scenarios through Saturday’s games: pic.twitter.com/aaSCmUItUQ

— Jeff McLane (@Jeff_McLane) December 17, 2023

Mandatory Credit: Getty Images