PHILADELPHIA – Jalen Hurts’ meteoric rise from promising college prospect to a full-blown cultural icon has officially reached legendary status in 2025. After leading the Philadelphia Eagles to a stunning victory in Super Bowl LIX and securing the MVP award in the process, Hurts has been recognized far beyond the football field—receiving two of the city and nation’s highest honors.
In February 2025, Hurts was named Philadelphia Citizen of the Year at a packed awards gala hosted by The Philadelphia Citizen, a nonprofit known for spotlighting civic leadership and local impact. Only a few months later in June, Hurts stood on a national stage as he was crowned Sportsman of the Year at the 25th Annual BET Awards in Los Angeles—one of the most prestigious cultural honors in Black entertainment and sports.
It’s a double honor that reflects the quarterback’s growing influence in every direction. Not only did he deliver the city’s second Lombardi Trophy with a flawless performance in Super Bowl LIX, but he did it while carrying himself with a level of poise, grace, and humility that’s rare even among champions. Hurts threw for 348 yards and three touchdowns in the title game, and ran for another score, cementing his status as one of the league’s most dynamic dual-threat quarterbacks.
But it’s what Hurts has done off the field that has elevated his legend in Philadelphia. He has donated millions to education reform programs, funded scholarships for underprivileged youth, spoken out on issues of racial injustice, and personally visited dozens of community centers throughout the city. In speeches, classrooms, and locker rooms, his message has remained consistent—resilience, discipline, and doing right by others.
“You can feel that his leadership isn’t just about calling plays. It’s about changing lives,” said Philadelphia Citizen co-founder Larry Platt. “This city has been blessed with some great athletes, but what Jalen Hurts represents goes beyond that. He’s a movement in motion.”
The BET Awards honor came after a national vote and selection panel of cultural icons, artists, and sports journalists. In accepting the award, Hurts paid tribute to his upbringing, his teammates, and the people of Philadelphia.
“Everything I am and everything I’ve become is rooted in faith, family, and this city,” Hurts said onstage. “We fight for everything here. And that’s what makes us special.”
Teammates describe Hurts as relentless, disciplined, and fiercely loyal. Coaches call him the smartest and most emotionally mature player they’ve ever led. And fans? They just call him their own. In a sports town that demands excellence and worships winners, Jalen Hurts has become something even more powerful—a role model, a warrior, and a new face of the Eagles dynasty.
With more seasons ahead, a growing legacy off the field, and honors stacking up faster than touchdowns, Hurts isn’t just winning games. He’s redefining greatness in Philadelphia.