Jalen Hurts is still in the NFL’s concussion protocol, forcing the Philadelphia Eagles to play against Dallas without their star quarterback.

The Eagles will turn to backup Kenny Pickett today because Hurts is still dealing with the lingering effects of a concussion suffered against Washington.

Hurts was injured early at Washington after his head slammed against the ground on one run and he was hit in the helmet by Commanders linebacker Frankie Luvu at the end of another.

Eagles coach Nick Sirianni said the Eagles would lean on the medical staff on a daily basis to know where Hurts was in his recovery from the head injury.

The 26-year-old Hurts did not practice this week, leaving Pickett — who suffered a rib injury in relief action against the Commanders — in line for his first start as an Eagle.

Pickett was 14 of 24 for 143 yards against the Commanders, throwing a touchdown pass to A.J. Brown and an interception.

Pickett is from New Jersey and said when he was acquired from Pittsburgh that he had “great memories” of going to games at Lincoln Financial Field with his dad and grandfather since he was 5. The chance to run out of the home team tunnel — which he could get today if he’s the starting QB — left him absolutely delighted.

“It’s a big opportunity,” Pickett said this week. “I’ve been working hard to stay ready. I felt like I was in a good position last game with my preparation. Now, having a week to practice, I’ll feel even better going into the stadium.”

Pickett, a first-round pick out of Pitt in 2022, went 14-10 as a starter for the Steelers.

The Eagles will bump third-stringer Tanner McKee to the backup spot. The Eagles also signed QB Ian Book this week to the practice squad.

Hubbard shut down

Chuba Hubbard’s season is over.

The Panthers placed their leading rusher on injured reserve Saturday with a strained calf.

Hubbard was limited in practice Friday with a knee injury and was listed as questionable to play today against the Buccaneers. After practice, Hubbard complained of pain and had an MRI, which revealed a grade two calf strain, according to the team.

Hubbard ran for 1,195 yards — the fourth-most in franchise history — and 10 TDs this season. He is sixth in the league in yards rushing.

He becomes the third Panthers running back to be placed on IR this season, joining Miles Sanders and rookie Jonathan Brooks.

The move likely means Mike Boone will start against Tampa Bay, with Raheem Blackshear expected to see reps as well.

Extra points

Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa was downgraded to doubtful for today’s game against the Browns due to a hip injury. If Tagovailoa is ruled out, Tyler Huntley will start. Huntley spent training camp with the Browns, before signing by Miami after Tagovailoa sustained his third documented concussion in September. Huntley went 1-2 in three starts for the Dolphins, passing for 377 yards with a TD and an interception.

Quarterback Anthony Richardson has been ruled out for the Colts’ big game at the New York Giants today because of back and foot injuries. Richardson’s absence likely means Joe Flacco will start against New York.

Two-time Pro Bowl linebacker Shaquil Barrett is rejoining the Buccaneers. The Bucs signed the two-time Super Bowl champion abruptly announced his retirement before the start of Dolphins training camp in July. He decided to unretire last month.