Full Breakdown
Eagles Release Veteran QB Andy Dalton Amid Roster Crunch
By Drooid · · How we work
Immediate Action: Release of Andy Dalton
The Philadelphia Eagles cut veteran quarterback Andy Dalton on Friday, according to NFL Network insider Mike Garafolo. The move removes Dalton from the 53-man roster but does not preclude a return via the practice squad, Garafolo added. The decision was reported on October 9, 2026 and leaves Jalen Hurts backed up by Tanner McKee and rookie Cole Payton.
Background: Dalton’s Arrival and Role
In March, Philadelphia traded a 2027 seventh-round pick to the Carolina Panthers to acquire Dalton. The 38-year-old, a three-time Pro Bowler with 39,793 career passing yards, entered training camp competing with McKee for the backup spot. Dalton ultimately secured the No. 2 quarterback role heading into the regular season, a decision justified by his experience in a West-Coast offense similar to coordinator Sean Mannion’s system.
Game-Day Mistake That Shifted the Depth Chart
During Week 3 against the Chicago Bears, Hurts left the field for a concussion evaluation. Dalton entered the second quarter with the Eagles at the Chicago two-yard line. On third-and-goal, he attempted a pass to rookie wide receiver Dontayvion Wicks that was intercepted in the end zone, contributing to a 27-7 loss. The interception was his sole regular-season pass attempt for Philadelphia. The following week McKee was promoted to the primary backup, demoting Dalton to third string.
Roster Pressures and Injury Landscape
Philadelphia’s quarterback depth change coincided with a cascade of injuries and roster moves:
- Right tackle Lane Johnson announced retirement.
- Center Cam Jurgens was traded to the Baltimore Ravens.
- Injuries sidelined running back Saquon Barkley, wide receiver DeVonta Smith, and center Drew Kendall.
These absences left the Eagles carrying four quarterbacks on the active roster, a luxury the team could no longer afford.
Data & Statistics
- Draft cost: 2027 seventh-round pick.
- Regular-season impact: 1 pass attempt, 0 completions, 1 interception; 0 yards.
- Game result: Bears 27, Eagles 7.
- Roster moves: Release creates one 53-man spot; the team added RB Carson Steele and C Jake Majors to the active roster.
- Depth chart after release: Jalen Hurts (starter), Tanner McKee (backup), Cole Payton (third-string rookie).
Official Statements & Responses
The Eagles confirmed Dalton’s release through a team spokesperson, citing the need to address multiple injuries. Coach Nick Sirianni reiterated confidence in the remaining quarterbacks, emphasizing the importance of ball security after the turnover that contributed to the Bears loss.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on Dalton’s total snap count before his release. Some outlets note “four regular-season snaps” while others describe “one pass attempt” as his only meaningful action. No source provides a complete play-by-play breakdown beyond the interception.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I obviously didn't see the safety in the middle, and he just read my eyes,” — Andy Dalton, are releasing veteran
- “I have a lot of faith in both of those guys,” — Nick Sirianni, head coach
What’s Next
The Eagles travel to London for a Week 5 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars. With the roster spot opened by Dalton’s release, the team can address depth concerns at other positions ahead of the international game. Dalton, who turns 39 on October 29, will enter free agency and may attract interest from teams seeking veteran quarterback depth.