Latest NFC trade could reshape Jets’ QB plans

Will the “Mormon Missile” be making his way to Florham Park?

It could happen—if the Philadelphia Eagles’ trade for the “Red Rifle” signals a shift in their quarterback plans.

Eagles shake up QB room

The NFL world was perplexed Wednesday evening when the Eagles sent a seventh-round pick to the Carolina Panthers for veteran journeyman Andy Dalton. The former Pro Bowl quarterback was a potential backup option for a team like the New York Jets.

Instead, he is headed to the City of Brotherly Love.

Philadelphia’s acquisition of Dalton poses an interesting conundrum for the organization. Former sixth-round pick Tanner McKee is entering the final year of his rookie deal, which means the arrival of Dalton could put McKee on the market.

If that opportunity presents itself, the Jets should be all-in.

Jets’ QB plans

The Jets have already sent away draft picks to theoretically solve their starting quarterback question. Geno Smith, the former second-round pick turned Pro Bowl quarterback, is back in New York.

Who fills out the Jets’ quarterback room, though, remains something of a mystery.

Gang Green is expected to draft a quarterback in the 2026 selection process. But they would be smart to pair the eventual rookie not just with Smith, but with another veteran as well.

Among backup quarterbacks around the league, McKee is an option with unique upside.

McKee isn’t very experienced, having started just two NFL games in three seasons (both in Week 18), but he has shown promising flashes in a limited sample. Across six appearances, the 25-year-old has thrown five touchdowns to one interception, earning a 95.7 passer rating.

McKee was an interesting name hovering around Jets circles before they landed on Smith. The issue is that, given his potential, Philadelphia won’t be looking to give him away without significant draft capital in return.

If the price is right, though, a quarterback room with Smith, McKee, and an eventual rookie is the kind of room that can be considered an upgrade from last season’s debacle in New York.

The Dalton trade means Philadelphia has three quarterbacks on the roster who have started NFL games. They won’t be trading away Super Bowl MVP Jalen Hurts anytime soon, but their plan for the backup role is now in question after Dalton’s arrival.

That gives New York an opportunity to strike.