NFL

Jalen Hurts Named to TIME’s 100 Most Influential People of 2025

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By
Colin Lynch
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Colin Lynch Sports Editor

Colin Lynch covers the NFL, MLB and WNBA for Heavy.com, with a focus on the New England Patriots. His sports coverage has been featured on The Sports Daily and Basketball Insiders, as well as FanSided's Chowder & Champions. A New Hampshire native and former D1 baseball player at St. John's University, Colin was drafted by the San Diego Padres in 2008 and enjoyed a four-year professional baseball career.

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Published17 Apr 2025

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Jalen Hurts Named to TIME's 100 Most Influential People of 2025

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts has been recognized for leadership on and off the field with the Eagles 

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts has been named one of TIME magazine’s 100 Most Influential People of 2025. The recognition comes after Hurts led the Eagles to a decisive 40-22 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX, earning Super Bowl MVP honors. ​

Baseball Hall of Famer Derek Jeter penned Hurts’ profile for TIME, highlighting the quarterback’s resilience and determination. Jeter wrote, “What Jalen Hurts went through in being benched during the 2018 National Championship game would break a lot of people down. But not Jalen; he focused on what he could control and found a new path to success.” He added, “This past February, Jalen found himself on the Super Bowl stage again. This time he led Philadelphia to a convincing victory in its rematch with Kansas City.”

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Community Engagement and Recognition

Beyond his on-field achievements, Hurts has been lauded for his community involvement. On February 25, 2025, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro presented Hurts with the Philadelphia Citizen of the Year award. The honor recognized Hurts’ mentorship of youth, promotion of financial literacy, and support for the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). Hurts has contributed to CHOP and Philadelphia public schools, including donations to improve classroom conditions. ​

In an interview with The Philadelphia Citizen, Hurts emphasized his commitment to the community: “In these classrooms, I saw how much potential our young people have, but I also saw the barriers they face due to a lack of basic resources. This is about giving back to the community that shaped me and ensuring these kids have everything they need to succeed. They deserve it.”​

Hurts has also been a vocal advocate for women’s sports, particularly flag football. He has participated in events promoting the sport and has been named a global ambassador for the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, where flag football will debut as a medal event. In a promotional video, Hurts declared, “It’s our turn,” symbolizing the sport’s growing prominence on the global stage.

A Lasting Impact

At 26, Jalen Hurts has demonstrated leadership and excellence both on and off the field. His inclusion in TIME’s list underscores his influence and the respect he commands across various spheres. As Derek Jeter noted, “Win or lose, Jalen’s resilience and determination offer all of us something to admire.” ​

Hurts’ journey from collegiate challenges to professional triumphs serves as an inspiration, reflecting a commitment to excellence, community, and the advancement of sports.