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Eagles fans get the Tanner McKee injury update they've been expecting

Originally posted on Inside the Iggles
By Anthony Miller | Last updated Sep 3, 2025 4:22 PM ET

From the moment it was reported that Philadelphia Eagles backup quarterback Tanner McKee was dealing with a fractured thumb injury, it didn't look great for him to be ready for the start of the season. Eagles fans now have confirmation of that.

The team reported on Wednesday on the latest injury report that McKee did not practice with his right thumb injury and is ruled out of the Week 1 matchup with the Dallas Cowboys. The injury came up the week of the New York Jets preseason game when he did not play in the game and it wouldn't be until after the game that it was revealed that McKee was hurt.

Wednesday's injury report. #DALvsPHI pic.twitter.com/mdMVhh6sBH
— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) September 3, 2025

McKee went into training camp as the de facto backup quarterback and more than showed off his ability to earn that job. In the Eagles' win against the Cincinnati Bengals, McKee completed 20 of 25 passes for 252 yards and two touchdowns while adding a rushing score.

What's the plan now for the Eagles?

The apparent option for the Eagles is to roll with Sam Howell as the backup for Jalen Hurts. Howell was acquired in a trade with the Minnesota Vikings for this reason, even if general manager Howie Roseman doesn't say so. Howell has started 18 games in his career, which means Philly is in good hands with him.

Part of the reason for that trade also brings up the second part of the equation: rookie Kyle McCord. It appears that the Eagles will have to go with McCord to be the third emergency quarterback for the game. He hasn't been elevated to the active roster yet, but could be soon.

It's not the perfect situation for the Eagles, but getting Howell gives them enough insurance that it won't completely go off the rails if Hurts gets injured. The situation should be okay for at least the Cowboys game.

This article first appeared on Inside the Iggles and was syndicated with permission.

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