Jalen Hurts Dreads: Why He Cut Them, Haircut Name, and Style Journey

Jalen Hurts has always been more than just a quarterback — he’s a cultural figure, a role model, and someone whose style has sparked conversations far beyond the football field. Among his most memorable looks, his dreads stand out as an iconic chapter in his personal story. They weren’t just a hairstyle; they became part of his identity, symbolizing confidence, individuality, and the pride he carried both on and off the field.

Fans still remember the days when Hurts took the field with his dreadlocks flowing out from under his helmet. Then, almost as quickly, the look was gone — replaced by a clean, cropped haircut that left many asking the same questions: Why did Jalen Hurts cut off his dreads? What is the official name of his new haircut? Does his current style lean more toward an afro, or does it fall into another category altogether?

This article dives into the full journey of Jalen Hurts dreads — from how the style began and why it mattered, to the decision to cut them, and what came after. Along the way, we’ll break down haircut names, compare styles, explore cultural meaning, and share practical grooming insights that parents or style-conscious readers can pass on to their children. Because when it comes to hair, especially in the world of athletes and role models, the choices go far beyond appearance — they carry lessons about self-expression, identity, and change.

I. Understanding Jalen Hurts’s Dreads: Background & Meaning

1. Early Appearance with Dreads

Jalen Hurts first gained attention for his dreadlocks during his college years at the University of Alabama. For fans, it was a signature part of his image — the kind of detail that made him stand out when he stepped onto the field. The dreads were more than a look; they reflected the culture he grew up in, the confidence he carried, and his desire to stay true to himself while playing under the national spotlight.

2. Cultural & Personal Significance

For many athletes, hair is deeply tied to identity, and Hurts was no exception. Dreadlocks hold cultural meaning in African American communities, representing heritage, strength, and individuality. To teammates and fans, his dreads projected an image of focus and determination, a player who knew who he was and wasn’t afraid to show it. Even though he never made hair the center of his brand, his look naturally became a part of how people remembered his early career.

3. Visual Characteristics of His Dreads

Hurts’s dreads had a unique presence: long, neatly maintained, and often tucked under his helmet during games. Unlike a rounded afro, which emphasizes volume and shape, his dreadlocks gave him length and structure. On some occasions, they were styled in ways that highlighted their thickness and natural texture. The contrast between his locs and the short, clean styles that followed makes the change even more noticeable today.

II. Why Did Jalen Hurts Cut Off His Dreads?

1. The Championship Bet

The story of Jalen Hurts cutting his dreads goes back to a promise. During his time at Alabama, Hurts and his teammate Josh Jacobs made a deal: if the Crimson Tide won the national championship, Hurts would cut off his dreads. Alabama did win, and true to his word, Hurts went to the barber’s chair. It wasn’t just a style decision; it was about loyalty, commitment, and keeping a promise — qualities that also define him as a leader on the field.

2. A Symbolic Fresh Start

When he cut his dreads, Hurts described it as a “new look, same mission.” To him, it wasn’t about abandoning the style, but rather about signaling growth, maturity, and readiness for the next stage of his career. For athletes, hair often marks different chapters of their lives, and this was one of those turning points.

3. Fan & Media Reaction

Fans reacted quickly. Social media filled with comparisons, throwback photos, and debates about whether they preferred Hurts with dreads or with his new short style. Many expressed nostalgia, while others applauded the clean-cut look as professional and sharp. The conversation showed just how much influence an athlete’s hairstyle can have, especially when the player is as visible and respected as Jalen Hurts.

4. The Athlete’s Practical Side

Beyond symbolism, there were also practical reasons. Maintaining dreadlocks takes time and care, and for a high-level athlete, the daily grind of practices, workouts, and games can make it harder to manage. Shorter haircuts, like the one Hurts adopted, are easier to maintain, lighter under a helmet, and more comfortable during long training sessions. This balance of image and practicality is something many young athletes — and parents guiding them — can relate to.

III. What Is the Haircut Name?

1. The Post-Dreads Cut: First Look

When Jalen Hurts cut off his dreads, he debuted a sharp, close-cropped haircut. The style featured a neat fade on the sides and a short length on top, giving him a polished, athletic look. This transition surprised fans because it completely changed his appearance — moving from a long, flowing style to something clean and minimal.

2. The Haircut’s Style Classification

Many fans have asked, “What is Jalen Hurts’s haircut name?” The look is often described as a low fade with a cropped top, sometimes close to a buzz cut with tapering. While it’s not an afro in the traditional sense, the short length on top maintains his natural texture, which gives it some resemblance to a mini-afro when grown slightly longer.

3. Comparison: Afro vs. Dreads vs. Fade

·        Dreads: Long, rope-like strands with cultural and personal symbolism.

·        Afro: Rounded, voluminous hairstyle emphasizing natural curl pattern.

·        Current Fade/Buzz Style: Short, structured, and easy to maintain, with a professional edge.

Jalen Hurts’s transition shows how hair can evolve with life stages. While his dreads reflected youth and individuality, his shorter cut conveys focus, maturity, and simplicity.

IV. Hair & Grooming Tips: From Dreads to Clean Cut & Healthy Maintenance

1. For Parents & Young People: Growing and Maintaining Dreads

If someone is inspired by Jalen Hurts’s earlier look, it’s important to understand that dreadlocks require commitment. They need:

·        Regular Washing & Conditioning: Clean hair is the foundation of healthy locs. Use residue-free shampoo to prevent buildup.

·        Moisturizing: Natural oils or lightweight leave-in products keep dreads from becoming dry or brittle.

·        Retwisting & Maintenance: Locs should be retwisted every few weeks to maintain shape, though freeform dreads are an option for those who prefer a natural style.

For parents, encouraging proper care routines can help children develop healthy habits early while allowing them to express themselves through their hair.

2. Transitioning: Cutting Off Dreads

Making the switch from dreadlocks to a short style isn’t just about grabbing scissors. A barber usually trims gradually, ensuring the hair underneath is even and the scalp is healthy. For some, this can be an emotional step — letting go of a hairstyle tied to years of growth and identity. Having a plan for the new style can ease the transition.

3. Post-Cut Styling & Maintenance

Once dreads are gone, shorter styles like fades or buzz cuts are easier to manage but still require care:

·        Moisturize Daily: Even short hair needs hydration to prevent dryness.

·        Regular Trims: Visiting the barber every 2–3 weeks keeps fades sharp.

·        Scalp Care: Use gentle oils or creams to prevent irritation, especially after switching from locs.

4. Expert Tips from Barbers & Stylists

Professional stylists often recommend:

·        Choosing a haircut that matches your face shape and lifestyle.

·        Sticking to a consistent maintenance routine to avoid damage.

·        Using protective styles if planning to grow hair back into locs.

By following these practices, young athletes — or anyone inspired by Jalen Hurts — can enjoy healthy, confident hairstyles whether they choose dreadlocks, an afro, or a clean fade.

V. Symbolism & Influence: What Jalen Hurts’s Hair Journey Teaches Us

1. Identity, Image & Sports Branding

For athletes like Jalen Hurts, a hairstyle can become more than a personal choice — it can shape their public image. His dreadlocks made him instantly recognizable, adding to the charisma he carried on the field. Cutting them off was not just about a bet; it became part of his brand evolution, signaling maturity and a new phase of his career. It showed fans that image and discipline can work hand in hand.

2. Cultural Conversations Around Hair in Black Communities

In African American culture, hair is often a reflection of history, pride, and identity. Dreadlocks, afros, and fades each carry different meanings, and Hurts’s shift from dreads to a fade mirrors conversations many young people have about balancing personal expression with professional or athletic expectations. His decision highlighted how hair is never “just hair” — it’s a statement about who you are and what you stand for.

3. Lessons for Parents: Supporting Children’s Hair Expression

For parents, Hurts’s story is a reminder of the importance of supporting children in their hair choices. Whether it’s dreadlocks, an afro, or a cropped fade, hairstyles are often tied to confidence and identity. Encouraging healthy routines while respecting individuality helps kids feel proud of their look. And when a child decides to change styles — as Hurts did — it can teach lessons about growth, change, and honoring commitments.

VI. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why did Jalen Hurts cut off his dreads?
Jalen Hurts cut his dreads after making a bet with his Alabama teammate Josh Jacobs — if the team won the national championship, he would cut them off. Alabama won, and Hurts followed through. Beyond the bet, he also described it as a “new look, same mission,” showing maturity and readiness for the next stage of his career.

Q2: What is Jalen Hurts’s current haircut name?
After cutting off his dreads, Hurts began wearing a low fade with a cropped top — a clean, sharp style often compared to a buzz cut or taper. While it isn’t technically an afro, his natural hair texture means it can resemble a mini-afro when grown slightly longer.

Q3: Did Jalen Hurts ever have an afro?
Not in the traditional sense. His dreads and later cropped styles don’t fit the classic afro look, which is usually rounded and voluminous. However, his natural texture could easily be styled into one if grown out.

Q4: How long did Jalen Hurts keep his dreads?
Hurts wore his dreads during his college years at Alabama. They became part of his signature look until he cut them off after the championship win.

Q5: How did Jalen Hurts maintain his dreads?
Though Hurts hasn’t shared a detailed routine publicly, athletes typically maintain dreadlocks by washing regularly with residue-free shampoo, moisturizing with natural oils, and retwisting every few weeks. His dreads were always neat, which suggests consistent care.

Q6: Has Jalen Hurts changed his hairstyle again since then?
Yes. Over the years, Hurts has kept variations of clean, short styles — from tight buzz cuts to fades. Each new look reflects both his growth as a professional athlete and his personal style preferences.

Conclusion

Jalen Hurts’s dreads were more than just a hairstyle — they became a symbol of his early identity, confidence, and individuality on the football field. When he cut them off, it wasn’t simply about changing his look. It was about honoring a promise, embracing growth, and showing that personal style can evolve without losing authenticity. His journey from dreads to a clean fade reflects how athletes, and people in general, use hair to express different stages of life.

For fans, parents, and young athletes, Hurts’s story is a reminder that hair is deeply personal, yet powerful in shaping how we see ourselves and how others see us. Whether it’s dreadlocks, an afro, or a cropped fade, the most important lesson is to embrace change with confidence and stay true to who you are — just as Jalen Hurts has throughout his career.