Philadelphia Eagles quarterback, Jalen Hurts, has recently made an exciting announcement outside of the football field. He revealed that he is set to release his debut picture book titled ‘Better Than a Touchdown’. The book is scheduled to be published in spring 2026 and will be geared towards a younger audience, aiming to inspire and uplift children with its message of resilience and self-belief. The cover of the book, featuring illustrations by Nenka Myers, has already been unveiled, sparking anticipation among fans of both Hurts and children’s literature.
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The narrative of ‘Better Than a Touchdown’ revolves around a protagonist named Jalen who dreams of joining his school football team, only to find out that the team is in jeopardy. Alongside his friends, he embarks on a journey to save the team, highlighting themes of teamwork, determination, and overcoming obstacles. Hurts expressed his hopes for the book to resonate with young readers, as he believes in the power of passing down valuable lessons and inspiring the next generation through storytelling.
Margaret Anastas, the vice president and Publisher of Flamingo Books, praised Hurts for his dedication and passion in creating the book, noting that he has poured his heart and soul into this project. As a multi-talented individual with a successful football career and his foundation, The Jalen Hurts Foundation, Hurts aims to extend his impact by reaching out to children through the medium of literature. The foundation is dedicated to empowering youth by providing resources, support groups, and positive role models in the Philadelphia community and beyond.
In his statement about the book, Hurts reflected on the invaluable advice and wisdom he received during his own childhood, emphasising the importance of selflessness and looking beyond oneself. He aspires to share these teachings with young readers through ‘Better Than a Touchdown’, encouraging them to cultivate resilience, self-belief, and a sense of purpose. By incorporating his personal experiences and life lessons into the narrative, Hurts aims to connect with his audience on a deeper level, fostering inspiration and empowerment.
The release date for ‘Better Than a Touchdown’ is set for March 10, 2026, with preorders currently available. Hurts envisions the book not only resonating with children but also impacting teachers, mentors, and parents alike. Through the power of storytelling, Hurts hopes to instill a sense of resilience and positivity in his readers, motivating them to chase their dreams and overcome challenges. The book promises to be a blend of entertainment and valuable life lessons, reflecting Hurts’ commitment to making a difference in the lives of young individuals through literature.
As Hurts ventures into the realm of children’s literature, his debut book symbolises a new chapter in his career, showcasing his versatility and creativity beyond the football field. With ‘Better Than a Touchdown’, he embarks on a journey to inspire and uplift a new generation of readers, leaving a lasting impact through the written word. Hurts’ foray into writing demonstrates his passion for storytelling and his dedication to empowering young minds, reinforcing the importance of resilience, teamwork, and self-belief.