Eagles Rookie Blown Away by Jalen Hurts’ Leadership After Just One Month in Philly

Philadelphia, PA – June 27, 2025

Philadelphia Eagles fans are buzzing after a promising young player revealed just how much he’s been influenced by quarterback Jalen Hurts. The story isn’t about touchdowns — it’s about relentless leadership. And in a city that thrives on toughness and heart, this tale hits home.

A fresh face in the locker room couldn’t hide his astonishment at Hurts’ day-to-day intensity. “Team workouts start at 9 a.m. I’d show up at 8 thinking I was early, and Jalen’s already going through film or stretching,” he shared. “So I pushed it. Got in at 7:30 one day — he’s still there. Finally, I came in at 6 a.m. hoping to beat him, and guess what? He was already mid-sprint on the treadmill.” The rookie’s candid story, posted on X, set off a wave of admiration across Eagles Nation.

That player is Will Shipley, the rookie running back out of Clemson taken in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Coming from a top-tier college program, Shipley thought he understood elite preparation — until he witnessed Hurts in action. His praise speaks volumes about the culture Philly’s QB1 has built. Per Pro Football Focus, Shipley credits Hurts for showing him what true NFL discipline looks like.

One fan posted on X: “Shipley’s seeing the real Philly standard — Hurts isn’t just a leader, he’s a machine.” In early minicamp drills, the chemistry between the two was clear. Shipley’s quick reads and soft hands made him a standout on third-down reps — a key piece behind Saquon Barkley with Boston Scott no longer on the roster, per The Athletic.

Head coach Nick Sirianni chimed in: “Jalen sets the tone. He’s not chasing stats — he’s chasing legacy.” Shipley’s work ethic has earned him early first-team looks, and teammates say his confidence is rising by the day, thanks in large part to Hurts’ quiet mentorship, per PhiladelphiaEagles.com.

Shipley’s observations echo what veterans like Jason Kelce and Lane Johnson have long said: Jalen Hurts doesn’t talk about greatness — he lives it. And with Philly’s tight salary cap situation in 2025, Hurts’ ability to elevate those around him is more valuable than ever, per Spotrac.

As camp approaches, the rookie’s admiration for Hurts is fueling new energy in the building. Could this be the start of Philly’s next elite backfield duo? Stay tuned to ESPN for more on the quarterback who refuses to be outworked — and the rookie determined to keep up.