Full Breakdown
Eagles Backup Quarterback Competition Heats Up
8/23/2026, 8:03:45 PM
Background & Context
The Philadelphia Eagles entered the 2026 preseason with franchise quarterback Jalen Hurts as the starter, but the backup slot remained unsettled. Veteran Andy Dalton, a 38-year-old journeyman with 169 regular-season starts, received the first preseason start in each of the Eagles’ two games. Tanner McKee, the 2023 fourth-round pick, entered the season with two NFL starts and was viewed as a potential long-term solution.
Core Event: Preseason Game vs. New England Patriots
In the second preseason matchup at Gillette Stadium, the Eagles fell 24-21. Dalton started and threw three completions on ten attempts for 44 yards. McKee entered later, completing 16 of 22 passes for 173 yards, two touchdowns and a 125.8 passer rating, with no interceptions. The game featured two critical fourth-down failures that Sirianni later identified as “hurt[ting] us, not converting there.”
Data & Statistics
- Andy Dalton – 6 completions on 16 attempts across two preseason games, 64 yards, 0 TDs, 0 INTs.
- Tanner McKee – 16 completions on 22 attempts in a single game, 173 yards, 2 TDs, 0 INTs, 125.8 rating.
- Fourth-down conversions – Both quarterbacks were involved in drives that stalled on fourth down.
Official Statements & Responses
Head coach Nick Sirianni emphasized that the competition remains open, noting Dalton’s greater experience in the Eagles’ system and McKee’s continued reps to master the new scheme. Sirianni also mentioned a “rep count” that guided the decision to give rookie Cole Payton a final series, stressing ball security.
McKee said his role is determined by the coaching staff and that he focuses on practice, film study and execution. He acknowledged the learning curve of the new offense and highlighted improvements after the Ravens game.
Why It Matters
The backup quarterback decision will be finalized before the league-wide roster deadline, influencing depth-chart stability and trade leverage. Dalton’s experience offers a reliable safety net, while his age and recent production raise questions about long-term value. McKee’s strong showing against a full-strength Patriots defense suggests upside as a developmental player who could assume a larger role behind Hurts.
Verbatim Quote
- “I think both the guys are battling, and I’m really confident in both of the guys,” — Nick Sirianni, Eagles coach
What's Next
The Eagles will host the Cincinnati Bengals in the preseason finale, providing another data point before the roster cut-down. Coaches indicated the final decision on the No. 2 quarterback will be made after that game, with the deadline looming in the coming weeks.
