Jalyx Hunt Cleared to Return to Football Activities as OTAs Begin

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – May 28, 2025

Philadelphia Eagles’ rookie linebacker Jalyx Hunt has been officially cleared to resume football activities, sources confirmed to ESPN, marking a significant milestone in his recovery from an ankle injury sustained during the 2024 regular season. The third-round draft pick, speaking to reporters at the NovaCare Complex, expressed enthusiasm about rejoining his teammates for Organized Team Activities (OTAs) as the Eagles prepare for the 2025 season.

Hunt, selected 94th overall in the 2024 NFL Draft out of Houston Christian University, suffered an ankle injury in Week 10 of the 2024 season, which limited his participation in the latter part of his rookie campaign. Despite the setback, the 23-year-old edge rusher made a notable impact, recording 21 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles in 16 regular-season games, per NFL.com. His postseason performance was even more impressive, with 10 tackles and 1.5 sacks, including a standout sack on Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes in the Eagles’ 40-22 Super Bowl LIX victory. The injury required a focused rehabilitation program, including strength training, mobility drills, and targeted ankle stabilization exercises, to ensure a full recovery.

“It feels amazing to be back with the squad,” Hunt said Tuesday, flashing his trademark smile. “That ankle’s behind me now. OTAs are a chance to keep building on last year and help this defense stay elite.” He reported no lingering issues, crediting the Eagles’ training staff and his family for supporting him through rehab. Posts on X from fans, including one from @Meche64 saying, “Welcome back fam. Told you that you were going to be great,” reflect the excitement surrounding his return.

Hunt’s journey to the NFL has been unconventional. A former safety at Cornell, he transitioned to edge rusher at Houston Christian, where he earned Southland Conference Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2023 with 133 tackles, 20.5 tackles-for-loss, and 13.5 sacks over two seasons. His athleticism—highlighted by a 4.64-second 40-yard dash, 37.5-inch vertical, and 34 3/8-inch arm length—made him an intriguing prospect for the Eagles, who saw him as a raw but high-upside talent. “He’s got freaky tools in his body,” GM Howie Roseman said post-draft, praising Hunt’s explosiveness and work ethic.

In his rookie season, Hunt exceeded expectations, especially after injuries to veterans Bryce Huff and Brandon Graham thrust him into a larger role. Lane Johnson, the Eagles’ All-Pro right tackle, noted Hunt’s potential early on, saying, “I’m like, ‘this guy needs to be playing,’” after facing him on the scout team. By season’s end, Hunt was a key part of the NFL’s top-ranked defense, earning praise from defensive coordinator Vic Fangio for his relentless motor and rapid development.

Hunt’s clearance bolsters an Eagles defensive front already featuring Jalen Carter, Jordan Davis, and newcomer Azeez Ojulari. “Jalyx is a sparkplug,” coach Nick Sirianni said. “He’s moving, hitting, and bringing that Super Bowl energy. We’re excited to see him grow in Year 2.” Hunt’s focus during OTAs will be refining his pass-rushing techniques, particularly his get-offs and hand placement, as he aims to secure a starting role alongside Nolan Smith.

The Eagles, fresh off their Super Bowl triumph, face a challenging 2025 schedule, starting with a road game against the Dallas Cowboys on September 7. With uncertainties at wide receiver and in the secondary, Hunt’s return provides stability to a defense tasked with carrying the team early in the season. At 23, the Hagerstown, Maryland, native is hungry for more: “Winning one ring was surreal, but I’m chasing another. This is just the beginning.”

Chiefs Kingdom may be buzzing about Darian Kinnard’s return, but Eagles fans are equally thrilled for Hunt, whose unique journey—from Hagerstown youth star to Super Bowl champion—continues to inspire. As OTAs kick off, all eyes are on No. 58 to cement his place as a cornerstone of Philadelphia’s defense and fuel their quest for back-to-back titles.