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Joe Milton could play his way into the Eagles' long-term plans

Joe Milton will have the chance to lock down a future with the Philadelphia Eagles.
ByRichard Louis
Aug 28, 2026; Arlington, Texas, USA;  Dallas Cowboys quarterback Joe Milton III (10) looks to pass against the New Orleans Saints in the first quarter at AT&T Stadium.  Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Aug 28, 2026; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys quarterback Joe Milton III (10) looks to pass against the New Orleans Saints in the first quarter at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

The Philadelphia Eagles are in the middle of a six-game slide, as they are 2-6 entering Week 9. With the New York Giants next, the Eagles decided to make a change at quarterback. They will start Joe Milton over Tanner McKee in this divisional bout.

McKee got the starting role when Jalen Hurts was placed on IR, but the results weren't pretty. Over three games, he completed 63 percent of his passes for 638 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions. Philadelphia also went 0-3 during that stretch and failed to score more than 21 points in any game.

The Eagles need more from that position, which opens the door for Milton to make an impact that can extend beyond 2026.

Joe Milton has run away to lock down a future with the Eagles

Philadelphia signed Milton off the Dallas Cowboys' practice squad on Oct. 16 to give them some more depth under center. Milton spent time with the New England Patriots and the Cowboys in his NFL career.

He hasn't started a game, but when he's stepped in for relief, he's shown some signs. Over five games, Milton has completed 69.8 percent of his throws for 424 yards, two passing touchdowns, and two picks. While he isn't a runner, he can pick up some yards with his legs if needed, logging 66 rushing yards on 15 carries and one score.

These numbers won't blow you away, but when you look at the traits that Milton possesses, he's a very intriguing option. Milton has a rocket for an arm that can attack the deep parts of the field with ease. He has the skill set to make some wow throws.

Being able to put pressure on the back end of the defense allows the playbook to open up. Not only is that an asset, but he's more mobile than McKee. Moving the pocket on boots, play actions, and the sheer ability to extend plays should give this team more life.

Joe Milton may have found his path to a future with the Eagles

Going into the year, McKee got a lot of praise. Yet, when he took the field, it was anything but. McKee is going to be a free agent in the offseason, and he didn't do himself any favors.

The offense lacked juice with him under center, but if Milton sparks this team, there could be a path for him in Philly down the line. If all goes well with Hurts and he's back for 2027, they still have an opening at QB2.

There are nine games left on the schedule. The coaching staff already feels they've seen enough of McKee, so if Milton takes advantage, he will be the starter for the rest of the year. It's important to note that Milton will also be a free agent, so he will be extra motivated.

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Whether it's for the Eagles or the other teams in the league, he is going to put his best foot forward. Time will tell how it plays out, but Milton has a real chance to not only start for the rest of the season but also make a case to be QB2 in Philly for 2027.

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