When discussions arise about the NFL’s most polarizing figures, names like Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs or Travis Kelce, also of the Chiefs, often dominate the conversation.
Despite their efforts away from the field, their success has attracted criticism and admiration in equal measure. But now, it appears a new name has risen to the top of the charts: Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts who won Super Bowl LIX in 2024.
All three players have been at the center of sustained on-field success and national attention, which naturally breeds both admiration and criticism. However, a recent study suggests that the label belongs to Hurts.
According to research conducted by Vegas Insider, which analyzed discussions across NFL-related Reddit forums, Hurts registered the highest volume of negative reactions among all players studied.
The outlet assigned him a Hate Score of 10.0 – the highest mark recorded in the National Football League – and noted that it wasn’t particularly close compared to other players.
While the methodology focused on online sentiment rather than locker-room perception or league-wide polling, the findings nonetheless highlight an intriguing disconnect between Hurts‘ public persona and his digital reputation.
So what’s driving the backlash?
On the surface, Hurts has cultivated an image of professionalism and composure. The former Super Bowl MVP has consistently emphasized team success over individual statistics, often deflecting praise and reiterating that wins are the only metric that matters.
He also boasts a Super Bowl ring, a high-profile partnership with Jordan Brand, and a reputation as one of the league’s most fashion-forward athletes off the field.
Part of the criticism may stem from the Eagles‘ widespread use of the “tush push,” a short-yardage quarterback sneak variation that has sparked debate around the league.
As the face of the franchise, Hurts has become synonymous with the play’s success, even as opponents and some fans question its aesthetics and competitive balance.
Additionally, the Eagles as a franchise have long been viewed as polarizing outside their passionate fan base, which can amplify criticism directed at their quarterback.
Complicating matters further is uncertainty surrounding Hurts‘ future trajectory.
A new quarterback in Philly?
According to ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler, Philadelphia could consider drafting a quarterback amid recent offensive inconsistencies.
“Yeah, that’s certainly on the radar from the people I’ve talked to,” Fowler said.
“We know what they [Eagles] did with drafting Jalen Hurts in the second round when they had Carson Wentz. I believe that formula could work for them yet again.”
Fowler continued: “It’s a crucial time for Hurts. I believe he’s at a crossroads. I know he’s had great success there, and some would disagree with that.
“Some of the shortcomings were pretty obvious last year, and this is now a time where they get a new offensive coordinator in Sean Mannion, who comes from Green Bay, where they did a lot of under-center work… There’s gonna be a change that he’s gonna have to embrace.”
“Maybe this can help bring the best out of him, but he’s gonna have to come around to that change. I believe the hire applies a little pressure in that way, subconsciously, whether they want to send a message or not. I believe that it does send a message.”
As Hurts navigates both schematic adjustments and heightened scrutiny, the 2026 season could prove pivotal for him professionally, especially with some competition in the quarterback room.
And while his standing within the Eagles organization remains impeccable, he may be focused on reshaping a narrative that currently casts him as the NFL’s most criticized star.
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