Philly Didn’t Turn on Carson Wentz for Being White, and It’s Not Turning on Jalen Hurts for Being Black

The Narrative Taking Hold

In recent weeks, a familiar narrative has resurfaced in sports media and online discourse: that Jalen Hurts is not fully respected in Philadelphia because he is Black. The argument suggests that criticism of the Eagles’ quarterback is rooted less in football analysis and more in racial bias. It is an emotionally charged claim, and one that deserves careful examination rather than reflexive agreement or dismissal.

Philadelphia is not an easy city for quarterbacks. It never has been. Before assigning racial motivation to criticism of Hurts, it is worth asking a more uncomfortable question: is what we are seeing actually something far more ordinary—Philadelphia fans being Philadelphia fans?

A City That Has Always Been Hard on Quarterbacks

The idea that Eagles fans uniquely target Black quarterbacks ignores decades of evidence to the contrary. Philadelphia has long been an equal-opportunity criticizer, especially when it comes to the most visible position in sports.

Carson Wentz is the most obvious recent example. A white quarterback from North Dakota, with a background that aligned almost perfectly with traditional “heartland” football stereotypes, Wentz should have been immune if race were the determining factor. He was not. From 2019 to 2021, he was relentlessly criticized, mocked, and openly pushed out by large portions of the fan base. His play was dissected mercilessly, his leadership questioned, and his flaws amplified daily.

When the trade to Indianapolis finally happened, many fans were not angry or conflicted—they were relieved. That reaction alone undermines the idea that Philadelphia protects quarterbacks who look a certain way.

A Long History of Black Quarterbacks in Philadelphia

If Philadelphia were hostile to Black quarterbacks, the Eagles’ history would look very different. Instead, the franchise has featured more Black franchise quarterbacks than any team in the league. Over the decades, Black quarterbacks have started more than 375 games for the Eagles.

Entire generations of fans grew up with Randall Cunningham and Donovan McNabb, who collectively defined Eagles football for more than two decades. McNabb, in particular, faced intense criticism during his tenure, but he was also deeply respected and widely embraced. His jersey filled the stands, and his legacy remains secure despite the boos he occasionally endured.

Those boos were never unique to him. Ron Jaworski, a white quarterback, absorbed plenty of them as well. That pattern has always been consistent: performance determines approval, and anything less than excellence invites scrutiny.

What Jalen Hurts Is Actually Being Criticized For

Jalen Hurts has accomplished more than most quarterbacks ever will. He has led the Eagles to multiple Super Bowls, won a championship, and earned a Super Bowl MVP. Those facts are undeniable.

So why does criticism persist? The answer has far more to do with style than skin color. A segment of fans and media figures simply do not believe Hurts fits their personal definition of an “elite” quarterback. He is not a gunslinger. He is methodical, cautious, and selective. He uses his legs strategically and avoids unnecessary risks.

This bothers people who believe greatness at quarterback must look a certain way. That debate—fair or not—has existed long before Hurts and will exist long after him.

The Numbers Don’t Support the Disrespect Narrative

Statistically, Hurts holds his own against any quarterback in the league. His efficiency, decision-making, and ball security compare favorably with peers who receive far less scrutiny. His interception totals are lower than many so-called elite passers, and his passer rating places him firmly among the league’s upper tier.

Yet some critics dismiss these numbers, arguing that he was “carried” by a strong offensive line, an elite defense, and exceptional skill-position players. That argument ignores the reality of team sports. No quarterback wins alone. The Eagles did not need Hurts to be a reckless gunslinger; they needed him to execute the offense efficiently and lead intelligently. He did exactly that.

Leadership and Fit Matter

One of Hurts’ most underrated qualities is leadership. Teammates consistently praise his preparation, accountability, and calm demeanor. He fits the Eagles’ identity perfectly—disciplined, resilient, and unflashy when necessary.

When the offense required him to throw aggressively, he delivered. When it required restraint, he showed it. That adaptability is not a weakness; it is a strength. The criticism he receives often stems from expectations that were never part of his job description.

Philadelphia’s Broader Sports Culture

Looking beyond football further weakens the racism argument. Some of the most revered athletes in Philadelphia history are Black: Brian Dawkins, Reggie White, Allen Iverson, Jimmy Rollins, Ryan Howard, and Joe Frazier, to name just a few. These figures are not merely respected—they are celebrated.

At the same time, white athletes across Philadelphia sports have faced intense hostility when underperforming. Baseball fans wanted players run out of town. Hockey players have been booed relentlessly. Quarterbacks have always been second-guessed.

The common denominator has never been race. It has always been expectation.

Social Media vs. Reality

Much of the recent outrage surrounding Hurts appears to originate online. Chronically online voices, amplified by algorithm-driven media, often distort reality. In real-world conversations—at games, bars, and watch parties—Hurts is widely regarded as one of the best quarterbacks the franchise has ever had.

Philadelphia fans may argue about his ranking among the league’s elite, but arguing does not equal disrespect. Debate is the city’s native language.

The Truth Beneath the Noise

Philadelphia did not turn on Carson Wentz because he was white. And it is not withholding respect from Jalen Hurts because he is Black. The city is doing what it has always done: arguing loudly about quarterbacks.

Hurts has already secured his place in Eagles history. The criticism he faces is not a rejection of who he is, but a reflection of a fan base that never stops demanding more—even from champions.