Eagles QB Jalen Hurts has been selected to the 2025 TIME100, an annual list of the 100 most influential people in the world.

Jalen Hurts, the quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles, has transcended the traditional role of an athlete. His selection to the 2025 TIME100—a prestigious list celebrating the world’s 100 most influential people—marks a milestone not only in his career but also in the larger cultural landscape. Hurts’ influence goes beyond football, extending into realms of social justice, leadership, and the collective imagination of millions who look to him as a beacon of resilience, dedication, and purpose. This moment in time is not merely a recognition of his athletic prowess but also a testament to his enduring impact on sports, society, and culture.

The Rise of Jalen Hurts: From Uncertainty to Superstar

Jalen Hurts’ journey to becoming one of the most influential people in the world is marked by adversity, perseverance, and unyielding belief in himself. Hurts, born in 1998 in Channelview, Texas, was introduced to football at a young age by his father, Averion Hurts, a former college football player. From his earliest days, Hurts was groomed for greatness, not only as a quarterback but as a leader. However, the road to the NFL was not always paved with certainty.

Hurts’ college football career began at the University of Alabama, where he quickly earned a reputation as one of the nation’s most dynamic quarterbacks. His dual-threat capabilities—balancing his ability to make plays with both his arm and legs—were evident from his freshman year. However, after leading Alabama to a national championship game and a spot in the College Football Playoff in his freshman season, Hurts faced his first major challenge: being benched in the 2018 national championship game in favor of Tua Tagovailoa, a decision that shocked many.

This moment of adversity would shape Hurts for the rest of his career. Rather than succumbing to frustration, Hurts displayed a level of grace, maturity, and commitment that would become his trademark. Instead of transferring, he chose to stay at Alabama, supporting Tagovailoa as a backup quarterback. This decision spoke volumes about his character, and when he finally earned a starting role again—albeit at the University of Oklahoma in 2019—he had become a more complete player and leader.

At Oklahoma, Hurts flourished. He led the team to the College Football Playoff and garnered Heisman Trophy consideration, further solidifying his position as one of the brightest stars in college football. His performance not only showcased his incredible skill set but also demonstrated his ability to adapt and thrive under pressure, a trait that would serve him well in the NFL.

Hurts’ transition to the NFL was another test of his resilience. Drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, Hurts was expected to back up then-starting quarterback Carson Wentz. Yet, when Wentz struggled during the 2020 season, Hurts was thrust into the starting role. His early days as a starter were rocky, but Hurts continued to demonstrate the same calm under pressure that he had exhibited throughout his career. Despite leading the Eagles to a less-than-stellar record in 2020, Hurts’ performances were enough to earn him the permanent starting job.

In 2021, Hurts’ trajectory began to accelerate. As the leader of a revamped Eagles squad, he helped guide the team to the playoffs, showing the league his dual-threat ability, leadership, and growth as a pocket passer. But it was in 2022, during his third season, that Hurts truly emerged as one of the NFL’s elite quarterbacks. Under his guidance, the Eagles had a remarkable season, ultimately reaching Super Bowl LVII. Although the Eagles fell short in the final game, Hurts’ performance solidified his place among the NFL’s best and earned him recognition as a legitimate MVP contender.

His on-field performances are a testament to his work ethic, but it’s his off-field influence that makes Hurts one of the most significant athletes of his generation.

Leadership Beyond the Field

What sets Jalen Hurts apart from many other athletes is his ability to inspire and lead outside the game. He has become a role model for millions, particularly young people who see in him the embodiment of resilience, humility, and the drive to improve. Hurts’ leadership is rooted in a deep sense of responsibility and community.

For Hurts, leadership isn’t just about throwing touchdowns or making game-winning plays. It’s about setting an example, both on and off the field. Whether he’s rallying his teammates in the locker room, speaking out on issues of racial justice, or helping to provide opportunities for underprivileged youth, Hurts exemplifies what it means to be a positive role model.

In 2020, as protests against racial injustice spread across the United States in the wake of George Floyd’s murder, Hurts used his platform to address the issues head-on. He spoke out about the need for systemic change, and he actively participated in social justice initiatives. His commitment to making the world a better place extends beyond speeches and statements—it is reflected in the charitable work he does, particularly for young people.

Hurts’ work in the community includes partnerships with organizations aimed at providing educational resources, mentorship, and opportunities for underprivileged children. Through the Jalen Hurts Foundation, he has supported numerous initiatives focused on empowering youth, particularly young athletes. Hurts believes that sport has the power to create pathways to success, and he has worked tirelessly to ensure that young people, regardless of their background, have access to the tools and resources necessary to succeed.

Additionally, Hurts has been a vocal advocate for mental health awareness. His own experiences with doubt, failure, and growth have led him to encourage others to prioritize mental well-being, especially in high-pressure environments like professional sports. His openness about mental health challenges—an issue often overlooked in the world of professional athletics—has endeared him to fans and peers alike, further cementing his role as an influential public figure.

The Impact of Jalen Hurts on Sports Culture

Jalen Hurts’ influence extends into the broader cultural landscape, where he has become a symbol of what it means to overcome adversity and define one’s own path. His rise to prominence represents a new era in professional sports—one in which athletes are not just entertainers but influential agents of change.

Hurts has emerged as one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the NFL, breaking records and setting new standards for excellence. His dual-threat ability has changed how we view the quarterback position, showing that versatility and adaptability are just as important as traditional pocket-passing skills. His style of play, characterized by poise, precision, and leadership, has influenced a new generation of quarterbacks, who now see the position as a multifaceted role that demands both athleticism and intellect.

Off the field, Hurts’ influence is also shaping the broader conversation around what it means to be a professional athlete in the 21st century. In an era where athletes are increasingly expected to use their platforms for social good, Hurts has embraced his role as a leader who is committed to making a positive impact. His success, both on and off the field, has become a source of inspiration for athletes in all sports, proving that one can be both an exceptional competitor and an influential public figure.

Hurts’ Legacy: A Future of Leadership and Impact

Jalen Hurts’ selection to the 2025 TIME100 is more than just an honor; it is a recognition of his broader influence in shaping the world around him. As one of the NFL’s most talented and promising quarterbacks, Hurts has already made an indelible mark on the game. But it is his work off the field that truly sets him apart, demonstrating that his legacy will extend far beyond football.

As Hurts continues to evolve as both an athlete and a leader, there is no doubt that his influence will only grow. His commitment to social justice, his dedication to inspiring the next generation, and his passion for helping others make him not just a quarterback but a true leader in every sense of the word. Jalen Hurts is no longer just a rising star in the NFL—he is a global figure, shaping the world through his actions, his voice, and his unwavering belief in the power of sport to create change.

For Hurts, the journey is just beginning. Whether leading the Eagles to more victories or continuing his work to improve communities and inspire others, Jalen Hurts will undoubtedly remain one of the most influential people in the world for years to come.