Jalen Hurts: The Secret to Conquering Time’s Top 100?

Jalen Hurts, the Philadelphia Eagles’ quarterback, has etched his name onto Time magazine’s 2025 list of the 100 most influential people in the world, an achievement that not only celebrates his football prowess but also underscores his profound impact beyond the gridiron. While teammates like Saquon Barkley and A.J. Brown are also shining stars, Hurts stands out with a remarkable story of resilience, leadership, and social good. So, what exactly propelled Hurts above his peers to earn this prestigious recognition? The answer lies in a unique blend of athletic excellence, personal grit, and a commitment to making a difference.

A Super Bowl Triumph Rooted in Resilience

Hurts’ journey to the Time 100 list is anchored by his on-field heroics, most notably leading the Eagles to a commanding 40-22 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX. Earning MVP honors in the process, Hurts showcased his ability to perform under pressure, cementing his status as one of the NFL’s elite quarterbacks. But what sets him apart from other Eagles players is the narrative behind this triumph. Unlike many of his teammates, Hurts has faced significant adversity, including being benched during the 2018 National Championship game while at Alabama. That moment, which could have broken many athletes, instead became a catalyst for his growth.

Baseball Hall of Famer Derek Jeter, who penned Hurts’ tribute for Time, captured this resilience perfectly: “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.” This ability to turn setbacks into fuel was evident again after the Eagles’ Super Bowl loss to the Chiefs in 2023. Rather than letting defeat define him, Hurts kept a photo of himself walking off the field as his phone’s lock screen—a constant reminder to stay driven. This mindset culminated in his Super Bowl LIX redemption, a victory that showcased not just skill but an unbreakable will.

Beyond the Field: A Broader Impact

While Hurts’ athletic achievements are impressive, his inclusion in the Time 100 under the “Icons” category reflects his influence beyond football. Unlike other Eagles players whose contributions are largely confined to the field, Hurts has leveraged his platform to effect meaningful change. As the global flag football ambassador for the 2028 Olympic Games, he is helping to grow the sport on an international stage, bringing new opportunities to young athletes. His vocal support for women’s sports, including advocating for equality and visibility, further distinguishes him as a forward-thinking leader.

Hurts’ commitment to representation is also evident in his choice of an all-female management team, a rare move in the male-dominated world of professional sports. This decision not only challenges norms but also inspires others to prioritize diversity in leadership. Through the Jalen Hurts Foundation, he has invested in youth initiatives, providing resources and mentorship to underserved communities. Perhaps most notably, his “Keep it Cool” campaign, which installed air conditioners in Philadelphia schools, addressed a critical need in the city’s education system. This effort earned him the 2024 Philadelphia Citizen of the Year award, highlighting his role as a community pillar.

A Story That Resonates

What makes Hurts’ inclusion in the Time 100 so compelling is the way his story resonates universally. His journey from a college benching to NFL stardom mirrors the struggles and triumphs of countless individuals facing their own challenges. Jeter noted in his tribute, “Jalen didn’t let a Super Bowl defeat in 2023 shake his confidence. He used that loss as motivation.” This narrative of perseverance is not just about football; it’s about life. It’s why Hurts was chosen over other talented Eagles players—his story transcends the sport, inspiring people far beyond Philadelphia.

Compare this to teammates like Barkley, a dynamic running back, or Brown, a standout wide receiver. Both are exceptional athletes with Pro Bowl credentials, but their public personas are more tied to their on-field performances. While they contribute to the Eagles’ success, they lack the same level of off-field impact or a personal narrative as universally relatable as Hurts’. The quarterback’s ability to connect his personal struggles to broader societal issues—whether it’s education, gender equality, or youth empowerment—gives him an edge in influence.

A Legacy in the Making

At just 26 years old, Hurts is already the face of the Eagles franchise and a role model for aspiring athletes. Drafted in 2020, he quickly rose from a second-round pick to a cornerstone player, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections and a Super Bowl ring. But his inclusion in the Time 100 signals that his legacy is about more than accolades. It’s about using his platform to drive change, whether through philanthropy, advocacy, or simply leading by example.

Jeter’s tribute encapsulated this forward-looking mindset: “Jalen is not exhaling. He’s embracing the next challenge.” Unlike some athletes who rest on their laurels after a major win, Hurts remains hungry. His work with the Olympics, his foundation, and his community initiatives show a man committed to leaving a lasting mark. This relentless drive, paired with his ability to overcome adversity, makes him a figure of inspiration in a way that sets him apart from his teammates.

Why Not Other Eagles?

The question remains: why Hurts and not another Eagle? The answer boils down to scope and story. Players like Lane Johnson or Brandon Graham are vital to the team’s success, but their influence is largely confined to football. Hurts, by contrast, operates on a global stage, with initiatives that touch lives far beyond the NFL. His Super Bowl victory is just one piece of a larger puzzle—one that includes community service, cultural advocacy, and a personal journey that resonates with millions.

In a team sport like football, individual recognition can feel rare. Yet Hurts has managed to shine not by overshadowing his teammates but by amplifying his impact in ways they haven’t. His inclusion in the Time 100 is a testament to this, a recognition that his influence extends beyond the Eagles’ locker room to the world at large.

Conclusion

Jalen Hurts’ ascent to Time’s 100 most influential people list is no fluke. It’s the result of a career defined by resilience, a commitment to social good, and a story that inspires across boundaries. While the Eagles boast a roster of talented players, Hurts’ unique blend of on-field excellence and off-field impact sets him apart. From Super Bowl MVP to Philadelphia Citizen of the Year, he’s not just a quarterback—he’s a movement. As he continues to embrace new challenges, one thing is clear: Jalen Hurts is only getting started.