"Lit a fire in me": Eagles QB Jalen Hurts says losing to Chiefs in Super Bowl 57 motivated him like never before

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts is set to make his second Super Bowl appearance in just three seasons. The young quarterback came agonizingly close to glory in Super Bowl 57, delivering an outstanding performance before falling short against the Kansas City Chiefs in a 38-35 thriller. Now, as he prepares to take center stage once again, Hurts is fueled by past heartbreak and determined to turn lessons into triumph.

Jalen Hurts' journey back to the Super Bowl has been defined by resilience and an insatiable hunger for success. Reflecting on the Eagles’ loss to the Chiefs two years ago, he admitted that the experience has shaped him into a better player. Speaking during Super Bowl Opening Night, he shared how the painful defeat became a source of motivation:

"I've learned so much. It's the same as any other game and, you know, I think the moments are the moments. But ultimately, you know, every game has its lessons -- good, bad or indifferent. So, just being able to become wiser, grow and mature and take all these lessons in for the next season and the next games. It's had a great driving force. It lit a flame, lit a fire in me, and to have this opportunity again is exactly what you work for."
This fire has been evident throughout the season, as Hurts and the Eagles silenced critics and stormed back into championship contention. After a rough 2023 campaign, Philadelphia responded in dominant fashion, winning 14 regular-season games and setting a record for the most points in a conference title game with a commanding 55-23 victory over the Washington Commanders. The resurgence has been fueled by Hurts’ leadership and his relentless pursuit of excellence.

Hurts has always been known for his level-headed approach, but the quarterback believes he has grown significantly since his last Super Bowl appearance. He acknowledged that experience and time have played key roles in shaping him both as a player and as a leader.
"Just the growth and the time. Every day there's a new lesson and a learning opportunity. I'm a more mature person and a better leader. All of these things, I've been able to push the threshold of [through] my entire career."
His leadership will be crucial as he looks to overcome a formidable Kansas City defense that has allowed just 414 passing yards in two playoff games. The Eagles boast a talented roster around him, but ultimately, the weight of expectation rests heavily on Hurts’ shoulders. He understands that success isn't about silencing doubters but rather about trusting the work that has been put in.
"This is not about them, it's about the work you put in and everything [in a game] is a reflection of that work. I've always had a focus on myself and trying to improve, and ultimately beating whoever's in front of you."
For Hurts, this opportunity is more than just another game—it’s a shot at cementing his place in NFL history. At 26, he has already proven his ability to perform on the biggest stage, but a Super Bowl win would elevate him into the league’s elite quarterbacks. As he put it himself, the chance to chase greatness is everything.
"It means everything. To have an opportunity to pursue whatever it is you're passionate about, whatever it is you love, it's very important."
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With the lessons of Super Bowl 57 still fresh in his mind, Hurts enters this championship clash with a renewed sense of purpose. The Eagles have done the work to return to this stage, and now, all eyes will be on their star quarterback to see if he can complete his redemption arc. For Hurts, the flame that was lit two years ago is still burning, and this time, he’s ready to finish the job.