Jalen Hurts Scores Big Off the Field with Debut Children’s Book “Better Than a Touchdown”

Fresh off a Super Bowl victory earlier this year, Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts is proving that his talents extend well beyond the gridiron. The NFL star is now entering a brand-new arena — children’s literature — with the announcement of his debut picture book, Better Than a Touchdown.

Hurts revealed the news in a heartwarming video recorded from the library of Tice Elementary School in his hometown of Houston, Texas, where his passion for both learning and leadership first began (People). In the clip, posted to Instagram, the 26-year-old quarterback shared his motivation for the project, describing it as both personal and purposeful.

“This has been a cherished dream of mine,” Hurts said. “I hope it inspires young minds and readers of all ages to believe in themselves and never lose sight of their dreams.”

The book, set to be released on March 10, 2026, follows a young boy named Jalen who dreams of joining his school’s football team. When the team is unexpectedly canceled, he and his friends rally together to bring it back — learning that teamwork, community, and perseverance matter more than any scoreboard (NBC News).

Published by Flamingo Books, an imprint of Penguin Random House, and beautifully illustrated by Nenka Myers, Better Than a Touchdown is already available for preorder online. The story emphasizes the same values that have defined Hurts’ career — discipline, humility, and service — qualities that have made him not only one of the NFL’s top players but also one of its most respected leaders (ESPN).

According to The Philadelphia Inquirer, Hurts’ decision to write a children’s book was deeply inspired by his own upbringing and his experiences visiting schools across the country. He often speaks about the importance of representation, saying that young kids — especially those from underrepresented communities — need to see themselves in stories of success and leadership.

“When I was growing up, I didn’t see many books that reflected kids who looked like me, or who came from where I came from,” Hurts shared in a recent interview. “This book is my way of giving back and showing the next generation that their dreams are possible too.”

Hurts, who graduated from the University of Oklahoma after transferring from Alabama, has built a reputation not only as a franchise quarterback but also as a philanthropist and role model. Through his foundation, he has funded literacy programs, youth sports, and community initiatives aimed at empowering young people to dream big and stay disciplined.

With Better Than a Touchdown, Hurts joins a growing list of athletes — including LeBron James and Kobe Bryant — who have turned their life lessons into stories for children. His book continues that tradition, blending sports with themes of hope, education, and perseverance.

As one fan commented online, “Jalen doesn’t just win games — he wins hearts.”

Better Than a Touchdown will officially hit shelves on March 10, 2026, from Flamingo Books (Penguin Random House).

Another win — this time, for the kids and for the culture.