Why Eagles QB Jalen Hurts should consider this new number

It’s crazy to think that Philadelphia's No. 1 quarterback was originally drafted to be the No. 2 guy. Jalen Hurts has come a long way in three years. but now’s the time for him to go from hero to "zero."

Starting this season, most NFL players will have the option to wear the number "0" for the first time since 1973. (Offensive linemen must choose from numbers 50-79, and defensive linemen must wear 50-79 and 90-99.) The Eagles proposed the rule change allowing players to wear zero.

So far, only Jacksonville WR Calvin Ridley and Giants WR Parris Campbell have claimed the digit, but more are sure to follow. 

Here’s why Hurts should wear the number:

Compensation

Not long ago, Hurts appeared in a commercial as part of Pepsi's "Made for Football Watching" campaign. In it, a tiny Hurts jumps out of a can of Pepsi Zero Sugar to call signals for a family’s pre-game snacks. 

We’re not sure what Hurts was paid for the spot, but imagine how much more he’d make if his jersey number matched the can? Advertising types call that "synergy." Just think of all the zero-calorie products Hurts could sell, not that he needs the money.

Unless something goes terribly wrong, Hurts' next contract should pay him a salary with lots of zeros. Why not honor them on the uniform?

Motivation

Hurts is no stranger to motivational messaging. Last season, he trademarked the phrase “I had a purpose before anyone had an opinion” for his clothing line. But will he lose focus once he signs a large contract? Not if he carries a zero.