As the 2025 NFL season unfolds, the spotlight is on two record-breaking quarterbacks: Jalen Hurts of the Philadelphia Eagles and Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills. These athletes are not just excellent in passing; they’re transforming the rushing touchdown dynamics within the league.
Rushing TD Records of Jalen Hurts and Josh Allen
Josh Allen holds the NFL record for the most rushing touchdowns by a quarterback with 77 touchdowns. Meanwhile, Jalen Hurts, drafted in 2020, is right behind him with 63 rushing scores, ranking third in NFL history.
Potential to Overtake Emmitt Smith
This upcoming matchup between the Eagles and Bills has significant implications. Both quarterbacks are on track to challenge Emmitt Smith’s career rushing touchdown record of 164. They could potentially break this record by the early stages of the 2034 season, an extraordinary feat for quarterbacks, considering that all top 20 players in rushing touchdowns are running backs.
- Josh Allen: 77 rushing TDs (NFL record)
- Jalen Hurts: 63 rushing TDs (third all-time)
- Emmitt Smith: 164 rushing TDs (record to beat)
Unique Skills and Playing Styles
Both quarterbacks have unique skills that enhance their rushing abilities. Allen, standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 237 pounds, employs his size and athleticism to sustain plays and evade defenders. He is currently in a tight competition with his teammate James Cook III, each boasting 12 rushing touchdowns this season.
In contrast, Hurts, a former powerlifter who can squat over 600 pounds, leverages his strength to break tackles. He excels in the zone-read and run-pass option game, allowing him to make quick decisions that lead to first downs and touchdowns.
The Impact of the Tush Push
A defining element of Hurts’ rushing success is the infamous “tush push.” It has contributed significantly to his touchdown totals. Since 2022, Hurts has recorded an astonishing 36 tush push touchdowns, compared to Allen’s 18. The Eagles utilize this play more frequently than any other team in the league.
Challenges Ahead
While both quarterbacks have the potential to break records, several factors could impact their journeys. Allen has maintained a consistent performance without injury issues, averaging 13 rushing touchdowns over the last three seasons. However, as he evolves in his career, managing his health will be crucial.
Hurts, on the other hand, faces challenges like declining rushing attempts and the increasing difficulty of executing plays like the tush push. There are also discussions around potentially banning this play in the future.
Conclusion
As Jalen Hurts and Josh Allen prepare to face off, fans and analysts alike will watch closely. Will they break the rushing touchdown record? Only time will tell, but their current trajectories suggest the possibility of rewriting NFL history.
