Jalen Hurts, the 24-year-old quarterback of the Philadelphia Eagles, has made history by becoming the highest-paid player in National Football League (NFL) history. The Eagles announced on Monday that they had signed Hurts to a five-year extension contract worth $255 million, which works out to an annual salary of $51 million. This makes him the highest-paid player in terms of average annual value, surpassing the likes of Aaron Rodgers and Russell Wilson.
Hurts joined the Eagles as a second-round draft pick in 2020, taking over from former Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz. He became a full-time starter in 2021 and led the Eagles to a 14-3 record last season. He also scored four touchdowns in this year’s Super Bowl, though the Eagles ultimately lost 38-35 to the Kansas City Chiefs.
Hurts’ impressive performance over the past two seasons undoubtedly played a significant role in securing his historic contract. However, his management team also deserves recognition for their contribution to the achievement.
Hurts is managed by an all-female management team from the sports agency Klutch Sports Group. The team, which comprises three Black women, is a rarity in the NFL world and has gained attention for setting a precedent in diversifying sports management, an industry that has historically been male-dominated.
Nicole Lynn, Hurts’ primary agent, was promoted to president of the company’s football division earlier this month, making her the first Black woman to head a football division in the NFL. Lynn and the management team have continued to break conventions and set records with this new deal. Jenna Malphrus, Shakeemah Simmons-Winter, Chantal Romain, and Rachel Everett manage different aspects of Hurts’ communications and marketing strategy.
Hurts himself has spoken about the work ethic of his management team, describing them as “straight hustlers” who “get things done.” Lynn, who initially reached out to Hurts via direct message on Instagram in January 2020, has been credited with securing the record-breaking deal.
The NFL community has praised Hurts and his management team for their achievement. ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith applauded Hurts for his growth as a player and congratulated his team on securing the contract, stating that Hurts deserves “every penny” of it. He also commended Lynn, saying she “had to do it.”
Hurts’ historic contract is a testament to his skill and the hard work and dedication of his all-female management team. With his new contract, Hurts has become a trailblazer for Black athletes and the women who support them in the sports management industry. By breaking barriers and setting records, Hurts and his team are paving the way for a more diverse and inclusive future in the NFL and beyond.
