Eagles ‘manically’ tried to trade for first overall pick so that they could draft Andrew Luck in 2012

Philly Eagles was also interested in Andrew Luck's predecessor in Indianapolis, Peyton Manning.

Eagles ‘manically’ tried to trade for first overall pick so that they could draft Andrew Luck in 2012

Andrew Luck (Via Imago)

The Philadelphia Eagles might have an entirely different legacy if only they had succeeded in acquiring former Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck. They reportedly pulled all strings to draft their franchise quarterback in a blockbuster deal. 

The Eagles are coming off a strong season. Even though they hit a losing streak by the end of the season, the team came through with an unbeatable record for most of 2023. Heading into the 2024 regular season, the Eagles are prepared for a solid comeback with rising star Jalen Hurts. Additionally, the franchise has also acquired Kenny Pickett as the backup quarterback. 

However, it wasn’t too long ago when Philly were searching for their franchise quarterback, and their eyes were set on Luck, coming out of Stanford. As per PHLY’s Zach Berman, the Eagles “tried manically to trade up” for the No. 1 overall pick from the Colts, hoping they would bring back legend Peyton Manning and give up the draft pick. 

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Unfortunately for the Eagles, the Colts drafted Andrew Luck and the former had to settle for Nick Foles using the third-round pick. But it turns out, Foles was exactly who they needed as he led the team to a Super Bowl LII trophy. 

Interestingly, Luck wasn’t the only Colts quarterback whom the Eagles were interested in. His predecessor Manning was also under Philly’s radar but he didn’t want to join them because he wasn’t fond of the idea of sharing the same division with his brother, Eli Manning. 

Jalen Hurts puts in extra work with receivers ahead of crucial season

Although the Eagles struggled to find their franchise quarterback before, they found the perfect balance with the Olakhoma product Hurts. After the disappointing end of last season, Hurts is putting in extra work for the upcoming season instead of enjoying vacation in the offseason like many other NFL players. 

Jalen Hurts
Jalen Hurts (via IMAGO)

The star quarterback is particularly building his twinning with rookie wide receiver Johnny Wilson as he was seen doing a private workout session with the receiver and veteran Parris Campbell. 

Given, that the Eagles are aiming for a comeback, head coach Nick Sirianni has emphasized the importance of being in the best shape. Hurts and his private workout sessions with his teammate is complying with their head coach’s message ahead of the training camp.

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