Senator presses NFL on Jalen Hurts’ treatment, blood clot protocols

U.S. Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester is asking NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell for information regarding Jalen Hurts' medical care, sparking congressional investigation into how the league managed the quarterback's blood clot diagnosis. In a letter sent today, the Delaware senator requested specifics on the NFL's protocols for identifying, preventing, and treating blood clots, as well as the circumstances leading to Hurts' approval to play and travel.

Blunt Rochester noted that the matter is highly personal, as her husband passed away from blood clots that traveled to his heart and lungs after an Achilles injury. Her letter inquires about the NFL's league-wide protocols for handling blood clots and player returns to participation, the education players and staff receive, and measures to address risks associated with long flights.

She also asked whether the league would conduct a thorough review of Philadelphia's management of Hurts' situation, including who authorized his participation in London and subsequent flight home. Blunt Rochester requested a timeline for any review and offered to meet with Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee members.

The request comes after the NFL Players Association called for a comprehensive investigation. NFL Commissioner Goodell stated on Wednesday that the league is open to the request while defending its medical protocols. Hurts played against Jacksonville following his diagnosis with a superficial blood clot in his calf, but further tests revealed deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary emboli.

He is now stable with a full recovery expected, but will miss the rest of the season due to treatment. Blunt Rochester's letter seeks information and a review, but does not initiate a formal Senate inquiry. The letter expands the questions facing the NFL beyond its discussions with the Eagles and the players' union.