Eagles Undecided On Backup QB

“Nothing’s decided there as far as who’s the two, who’s the three,” head coach Nick Sirianni said (via The Athletic’s Zach Berman) when speaking about the QB2 situation. “Andy’s played a lot of football. Tanner’s had two starts. Just wanted to make sure Tanner continues to be able to develop in live action… Been rotating with them in practice. I think both of them have continued to grow within the offense.”

2026 represents the final year of McKee’s rookie contract. The former sixth-rounder has shown flashes early in his career, leading to talk of a potential trade. Nothing has seemed imminent on that front over the course of the offseason, however. Dalton, meanwhile, was acquired via trade to offer Philadelphia experienced insurance behind starter Jalen Hurts. Dalton’s pact also expires after this season, and he is owed a guaranteed $1.5MM in 2026.

The age discrepancy between the players involved in this competition will no doubt be a factor in how the Eagles proceed. McKee is entering his age-26 season, whereas Dalton will turn 39 in October. There is of course a massive gulf in playing time, on the other hand. Philadelphia also drafted a developmental passer (Cole Payton) this spring, something which could point further toward Dalton being retained through roster cuts.

Hurts is entering his sixth full season as Philadelphia’s starter, although there will again not be full continuity at the QB spot with Kenny Pickett‘s 2025 departure via trade being followed this past spring by Sam Howell leaving in free agency. It will be interesting to see how the Eagles handle the split in workload between McKee and Dalton over the coming days with the deadline for roster cuts looming.