Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts is making waves once again, but this time it’s not on the field. He recently announced that he will be releasing a children’s book titled *“Better Than a Touchdown,”* with an official release date set for March 10, 2026. The book, beautifully illustrated by Nneka Myers, aims to captivate young minds with themes of empowerment, friendship, and teamwork—values that resonate deeply in both sports and life.
You might be wondering about the details. The book will consist of 40 pages of engaging illustrations and heartwarming stories, all for the reasonable price of $19.99. And guess what? It’s already available for pre-order! It’s a perfect gift idea for any young football fan or simply a child who needs a little inspiration in their life.
Hurts isn’t just about football; he has a passionate commitment to giving back to his community. Through the Keep It Cool Initiative, he has raised funds to install air conditioning units in schools across Philadelphia, ensuring that children have a comfortable learning environment. This is just one of the many initiatives he’s launched, including the “Carry the Difference” project and the “1 Mission” program, all aimed at uplifting youth and educational programs in the city. His dedication makes it clear that he genuinely cares about the future leaders of tomorrow.
It’s worth noting that Hurts is joining a growing trend among NFL players who’ve turned to storytelling as a way to inspire children. For instance, Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson released “I Dream, You Dream, Let Us Dream” three years ago, which encourages kids to pursue their dreams relentlessly. Hurts has also set up the “Jalen Hurts Foundation,” aiming to forge stronger communities by focusing on youth empowerment. Given his community-centric approach, it wouldn’t be surprising if he follows in Jackson’s footsteps by reading his book at local schools—an act that has brought joy and inspiration to many.
Writing children’s books has become a common avenue for athletes looking to make a positive impact. Whether through heartwarming tales or fun illustrations, many NFL players are stepping up to inspire the younger generation. Other notable examples include Russell Wilson and his wife, singer Ciara, who penned “Why Not You?”—a celebration of individuality. Shaun Alexander, the former NFL MVP, released “Alexander the Great,” providing kids with pictures and stories that instill valuable lessons.
And it doesn’t stop there. Former linebacker Stephen Tulloch’s “The Little Linebacker” speaks to perseverance, while Martellus Bennett is notably one of the most prolific writer-athletes, having published several children’s books since 2016. His works like “Hey A.J. It’s Bedtime,” “Dear Black Boy,” and “There’s a Unicorn in My Backyard” show his passion for storytelling and making a meaningful impact in kids’ lives.
So, who’s next on the list? As we keep our eyes on the NFL, it’s exciting to think about who will be the next player to channel their creativity into a book that could inspire children everywhere. Whether it’s Hurts’ journey or the impact of those before him, it’s evident that athletes are showing the world that they are not just role models on the field but also in the pages of a book.
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