Tanner McKee's latest backup QB ranking proves he's dream second string for Eagles

A year can change instantly for a player, and that's the case for Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Tanner McKee, who went from third-string quarterback to Jalen Hurts' backup.

Eagles fans have been seeing the potential in McKee, although the public was not aware of it. Even in last year's preseason games, it was clear McKee was outperforming the eventual backup Kenny Pickett.

One Pickett injury against the Dallas Cowboys later, McKee was thrust into the starting lineup and instant stardom in Philadelphia. What he did in the final two games of the 2024 season was enough for people to buy into McKee's stock entering 2025.

McKee getting the respect he deserves with high ranking

CBS Sports writer Cody Benjamin ranked the top 10 backup quarterback situations in the NFL. Sneaking in at number five was McKee despite having the least experience among the group.

"A top-five ranking for a backup with literally one career start? Yes, you read that right. If any team deserves the benefit of the doubt at this position, it's the Eagles, who won two Super Bowls turning backup quarterbacks into title-game heroes. McKee has also looked the part at every turn, be it at practice, in preseason or regular-season relief, with the frame (6-6, 231), accuracy and world-class Eagles weaponry to give Jalen Hurts a promising No. 2."

McKee was selected in the sixth round of the 2023 NFL Draft and has been the third-string quarterback in his first two seasons in the league. Last year was the first time he appeared in regular season games.

In two appearances with one start, McKee completed 66.7% of his passes for 323 yards and four touchdowns to zero interceptions. He helped seal a blowout win over the Cowboys and started in the win against the New York Giants to close out the regular season.

His strong performance at the end of the season led to Pickett being traded to the Cleveland Browns with draft picks, and quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson being involved. The Eagles were not done at quarterback as they selected Syracuse signal caller Kyle McCord in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft.

McKee has been taking second-team reps during offseason workouts and appears to be the front-runner for the job. It would have to take an injury or spectacular performances from Thompson-Robinson or McCord to take the job away from them.

Eagles general manager Howie Roseman long ago called the team a "quarterback factory" and wasn't afraid to have too much talent at the position. Roseman continues that mindset with the backups behind Hurts.

NFL teams have and probably will continue to make calls on McKee, but the Eagles seem set on him being the backup and are comfortable with him playing in case Hurts gets injured. Philadelphia is lucky to have McKee there and ready to roll at a minute's notice.