NEW ORLEANS, LA — On Monday morning, a gathering of reporters from across the nation convened at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans. The focus was on Super Bowl LIX MVP Jalen Hurts and head coach Nick Sirianni, who reflected on their victory the night before. The Philadelphia Eagles (14-3) triumphed over the Kansas City Chiefs (15-2), the two-time defending champions, with a decisive 40-22 win.
The duo shared insights on how the obstacles they faced—both personally and as a team—helped shape their success, and discussed their motivations as they look toward a promising future.
Both Sirianni and Hurts have experienced their share of doubters. Sirianni, after a shaky start to his tenure, faced scrutiny over his coaching decisions. Hurts, likewise, had his credentials questioned, often having his accomplishments overshadowed by the perceived strength of his supporting cast, including the receivers and running backs. But through perseverance and a steadfast focus on overcoming adversity, they both rose above the criticism.
“The most important thing was embracing the adversity we faced together,” said Coach Sirianni. “Adversity can shape you in remarkable ways, and if you allow it, it will mold you into a better person and a stronger team.”
Sirianni believes that adversity is what truly bonded his players.
“Through injuries, highs and lows, and every challenge we encountered, adversity brought us closer together. It transforms you both individually and as a group,” he added.
The coach also praised Hurts for his leadership and discipline, noting how Hurts’ meticulous preparation and high football IQ made him invaluable to the team.
“He’s always on top of everything. His preparation is exceptional, and his ability to read the game is outstanding. That’s a huge reason we’re able to adjust and execute plays consistently.”
Even leading up to the game, Hurts faced skepticism about his ability to carry the Eagles to victory. But for the Houston native, such doubts were nothing new. Reflecting on his journey—from being benched in college to transferring from the school where he had once been the starting quarterback—Hurts shared his belief that every step of his career had a purpose.
“I’ve had an unprecedented journey. The ups and downs, the bumps and joys, have all been part of the process. I wouldn’t be where I am today without everything I’ve experienced. I’m grateful for it all because I know that God has been with me through the highs and lows.”
Hurts, a two-time Pro Bowler, emphasized that the real value lies in the journey itself, not just the end results.
“Winning trophies is great, but it’s the journey that defines us. The results matter, but it’s the process—the growth, the challenges—that shapes who we are.”
When asked how the criticism over his career affected his performance, Hurts responded confidently, explaining that he’s always remained focused on his purpose, unaffected by outside noise.
“I had my purpose long before anyone formed an opinion about me,” he said. “My purpose is to be who God called me to be. It’s never been about others’ opinions. It’s about the journey, growing, and becoming the best version of myself.”
From being benched and overlooked to rising as a Pro Bowler, Super Bowl champion, and Super Bowl MVP, Hurts has proven that outside criticism does not define him. Along with Coach Sirianni, Hurts and the Eagles overcame doubts throughout the season and answered those skeptics with a Super Bowl victory.
In his MVP performance on Sunday night, Hurts threw for 221 yards, completing 17 of 22 passes with two touchdowns, and rushed for 72 yards and another score. As they look forward to next season, the Eagles plan to carry the momentum of this victory and their united mindset into the future.
