Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni expressed doubt about Jalen Hurts' availability for their upcoming game against the Dallas Cowboys due to a concussion suffered in their recent loss to the Washington Commanders. Sirianni acknowledged the challenge of Hurts clearing concussion protocol in time for Sunday's game.

Hurts sustained the injury in the first quarter of the Commanders game after hitting his head on the ground during a tackle. This will be the first game Hurts has missed this season. Backup quarterback Kenny Pickett stepped in for Hurts, completing 14 of 24 passes for 143 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Despite dealing with a rib injury himself, Pickett affirmed his readiness for Sunday's game.

Sirianni expressed confidence in Pickett's performance in practice this week, highlighting the quarterback's smooth transition into the starting role. Acquired from the Pittsburgh Steelers in March as Hurts' backup, Pickett now carries the responsibility of securing the Eagles' playoff seeding.

The Eagles are currently 12-3 and still have a chance at the No. 1 seed in the NFC, trailing the Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings, both at 13-2. Achieving the top seed and the crucial bye week in the Wild Card round will require additional favorable outcomes for the Eagles.

The NFC East title also remains contested after the Eagles' loss to the Commanders. If the Eagles lose their next two games and the Commanders win theirs, tiebreakers will determine the division winner. The Eagles' final two games are at home against the Cowboys and the New York Giants. The Commanders face a more challenging schedule against the Atlanta Falcons and the Cowboys.