Jalen Hurts and the New Era of NFL Leadership: How Philadelphia’s Star Quarterback Redefined Influence in 2025
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts cements his legacy as a sports icon, earning a spot on Time’s 2025 Most Influential list alongside Serena Williams and Simone Biles. Discover how his resilience and Super Bowl triumph redefined NFL leadership.

The Making of a Champion: Jalen Hurts’ Journey to Influence
When Jalen Hurts led the Philadelphia Eagles to a dominant 40-22 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX, he didn’t just secure a Lombardi Trophy—he etched his name into the pantheon of NFL legends. Hurts’ 221 passing yards and 72 rushing yards in the championship game showcased his dual-threat mastery, earning him MVP honors and setting the stage for his inclusion in Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People of 2025.
Beyond the Gridiron: Leadership That Transcends Sport
Hall of Famer Derek Jeter, who penned Hurts’ Time profile, emphasized the quarterback’s unwavering mentality:
“Win or lose, Jalen’s resilience and determination offer all of us something to admire. He’s not just playing the game—he’s redefining what it means to lead.”
Hurts’ influence extends beyond stats:
- Spearheaded youth football camps in underserved Philadelphia communities
- Advocated for mental health awareness among athletes
- Became the face of the NFL’s Next Gen Youth Initiative
A League of Legends: Sports’ Power Players in 2025
Hurts joins an elite roster of athletes on Time’s list: | Athlete | Sport | Impact Highlight |
---|---|---|---|
Serena Williams | Tennis | Global equity in women’s sports | |
Simone Biles | Gymnastics | Mental health advocacy | |
Léon Marchand | Swimming | Climate activism through sport | |
Breanna Stewart | Basketball | LGBTQ+ visibility in professional sports |
The Eagles’ Blueprint: Sustaining Excellence
With Hurts under contract through 2028, Philadelphia’s front office has aggressively:
- Acquired three first-round picks in the 2025 NFL Draft
- Signed Pro Bowl WR DeVonta Smith to a $95M extension
- Built a top-3 defensive unit anchored by Haason Reddick
As ESPN’s Ben Solak noted: “No team is better positioned for a dynasty than these Eagles—and Hurts is the engine making it all work.”