Philly Leader

TIME Magazine has named Super Bowl LIX MVP Jalen Hurts as one of the 100 Most Influential People in the World for 2025. The complete list and tributes are featured in TIME's April 28, 2025, issue, accessible at newsstands starting Friday.

Derek Jeter, a five-time World Series champion and baseball Hall of Famer, wrote the tribute honoring Hurts. In his piece, Jeter noted, "We connected shortly after (the Super Bowl), and the only thing he asked about was insight on going back and winning again. Sometimes people win, then exhale. Jalen is not exhaling. He's embracing the next challenge. Win or lose, Jalen's resilience and determination offer all of us something to admire."

Hurts played a pivotal role in leading the Philadelphia Eagles to their second Super Bowl victory in February. He is the seventh quarterback in NFL history to participate in multiple Super Bowls and win one within his first five seasons.

Since 2022, Hurts' performance has been notable. He was a finalist for the NFL's MVP Award while guiding the Eagles to Super Bowl LVII. His winning percentage stands at .787, and he has accounted for 105 total touchdowns, including 52 rushing scores – a league best. He is among four quarterbacks with over 10,000 total yards and 100 total touchdowns since 2022.

An advocate for women's sports, Hurts has an all-female team of representatives. He joined the Eagles Girls Flag Football League Championships and participated in a promotional video when the sport was made state-sanctioned in Pennsylvania last year. Hurts holds the position of global flag football ambassador for the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, where flag football will be a medal event for both men and women.

In addition to his sports achievements, Hurts launched the Jalen Hurts Foundation last year. His efforts to install air conditioners in Philadelphia schools through the "Keep it Cool" campaign contributed to his recognition as the 2024 Philadelphia Citizen of the Year for community outreach.