Full Breakdown
Eagles Fall Short in Preseason Thriller as Quarterback Competition Heats Up
8/24/2026, 8:03:50 AM
Core Event – Patriots Edge Eagles 24-21 in Foxborough
On August 22, 2026 the Philadelphia Eagles traveled to Gillette Stadium and were defeated by the New England Patriots, 24-21. Patriots backup quarterback Tommy DeVito threw a 69-yard touchdown to Kyle Williams and added a 2-yard rushing TD by Lan Larison. The Eagles’ points came from third-string quarterback Tanner McKee, who connected on two touchdowns—one to Britain Covey and a 20-yard strike to Carson Steele—and a late-game score that gave Philadelphia a 21-17 lead before New England’s final drive.
Background & Context – Joint Practices and the Backup QB Race
The game followed two days of joint practices between the Eagles and Patriots. Head coach Nick Sirianni called the sessions a “great connector,” noting that the drills allowed both teams to work on red-zone, two-minute and third-down scenarios that are rare in a single preseason week. The practices gave coaches additional material to evaluate the Eagles’ backup-quarterback competition between 26-year-old Tanner McKee and veteran Andy Dalton (38).
Data & Statistics – Key Numbers from the Contest
- Tanner McKee: 16-of-22, 173 yards, 2 TDs, 125.8 passer rating.
- Andy Dalton: 3-of-10, 44 yards, 45.4 passer rating.
- Tommy DeVito (Patriots): 8-of-15, 151 yards, 1 TD, 44 rushing yards.
- Team totals: Eagles 301 net yards (90 rushing, 211 receiving); Patriots 388 net yards (140 rushing, 248 receiving).
- Third-down efficiency: Eagles 4/11 (36 %); Patriots 9/17 (53 %).
- Time of possession: Eagles 27:19; Patriots 32:41.
Official Statements & Responses – Coaches and Players Weigh In
Sirianni said the competition for the No. 2 quarterback spot remains open and that both quarterbacks will continue to receive reps. He noted that McKee’s performance highlighted positive aspects but also pointed to missed fourth-down conversions. Dalton acknowledged the uncertainty, stating, “I don’t know. Have to see how it all goes.”
On-the-Ground Reports – Standout Performances
Defensive tackle Ty Robinson recorded two sacks on DeVito and three quarterback hits. Carson Steele posted 84 receiving yards, a touchdown and two hurdling plays that energized the offense. Will Shipley logged 56 rushing yards and a touchdown on 11 carries. Rookie Behren Morton handled punting duties, averaging 44.3 yards per punt.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I play when the coaches put me in,” — Tanner McKee
- “We got to continue to give both of them opportunities within practice and potentially games,” — Nick Sirianni, Eagles head coach
- “I don’t know. Have to see how it all goes,” — Andy Dalton
What’s Next – Upcoming Preseason Matchups
The Eagles will finish their preseason with a game against the Cincinnati Bengals later this week. The Patriots have a final preseason contest against Cleveland the following week, with both teams using the outings to finalize roster decisions.
