Former Alabama quarterback Jalen Hurts is sharing the lessons that shaped his journey from the Alabama Crimson Tide football to the NFL in a new children’s book aimed at inspiring young readers about perseverance, teamwork and community.
Hurts, now the quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles, recently appeared on CBS Mornings to discuss the book, “Better Than a Touchdown,” which was released March 10.
During the interview, Hurts said writing the book was a way of giving back after being influenced by mentors and role models throughout his life.
“Well, it’s me paying it forward,” Hurts said. “When I was a kid, I had those around me that were able to influence me. I remember going to the library and seeing the book, Tiki and Ronde Barber. So being able to carry that throughout my journey and put something that represents something that’s strong and can also extend myself.”
Hurts said the project is also intended to promote literacy and help young readers feel represented.
“It’s important to push literacy and the importance of comfortability in reading,” he said. “And when you are able to relate and give readers something that reflects them and their identities and their communities, I think that makes it even stronger.”
Illustrated by Nneka Myers, “Better Than a Touchdown” is aimed at children ages 4 to 8. The story follows a young boy who is devastated when his school’s football team is cut, but he and his friends work together to find a way to save it, learning the value of teamwork and community along the way.
Hurts said the motivational ideas in the book reflect wisdom he has gained through conversations with mentors and life experiences.
“All of the wisdom and everything that I’ve been able to use to grow and develop myself will come from other people through conversations and through humility and being willing to grow,” Hurts said.
He added that the lessons in the book are meant for readers of all ages.
“This book is a picture book, but it’s not subject to just one demographic,” Hurts said. “It’s for those young and old, and those who need the reminder and those who need the lesson.”
Hurts also connected the message of the book to his charitable work through the Jalen Hurts Foundation, which focuses on youth development and mentorship.
The foundation’s mission is to “serve, mentor, and progress,” Hurts said, adding that the organization aims to strengthen communities by supporting young people and encouraging them to pursue their passions.
Hurts said he has also been visiting classrooms and reading the book to students, giving him the chance to interact directly with young readers and talk about the importance of perseverance and believing in themselves.
For Hurts, the book represents another way to pass along the lessons of perseverance and leadership that shaped his journey from Alabama to the NFL.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.
