As much criticism as he's received this offseason, Jalen Hurts is still the Philadelphia Eagles' QB1. The former Super Bowl MVP is set to lead the Birds on a quest to get back to the top this season with multiple new weapons surrounding him.
But Hurts' backup is one of the most important players on the Eagles' roster. Second-string quarterback Tanner McKee is one of the best backups in the NFL, according to Tyler Sullivan of CBS Sports. Sullivan recently ranked the Eagles' backup quarterback situation ninth among 16 Super Bowl contenders.
Alongside veteran Andy Dalton, McKee helps give the Eagles a security blanket in case Hurts ever needs to miss time.
Tanner McKee gives Eagles invaluable Jalen Hurts insurance
McKee only started just one game for the Eagles in 2025, and it wasn't pretty. His Week 18 performance in a loss to the Josh Johnson-led Washington Commanders featured a 52.5% completion rate, one touchdown, and one interception.
Still, he has a strong resume. He was significantly better in his lone start in the 2024 season; he completed 65.9% of his passes for 269 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions.
McKee fits the prototypical mold of an NFL quarterback. He's 6'6" with a strong arm and the ability to access all areas of the field. The 2023 sixth-round pick may not have the tools to be a starter, but he's one of the best backups in the league.
He even drew significant trade interest this offseason, though the Eagles have been hesitant to move on from him. In Philly's crowded quarterback situation, he could still be traded before the start of the season, with Charles North of Stadium Rant even saying he's "almost a lock to be traded by week one."
Bleacher Report writer Moe Moton speculated that, if the Eagles do decide to trade McKee, they could expect to get a sixth-round pick in return. That's not a bad price if Dalton ends up winning the second-string quarterback job in training camp.
With Dalton and rookie Cole Payton behind McKee, fighting to make the roster, the Eagles have some of the best quarterback depth in football.
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Hopefully, that depth doesn't matter this season. Philadelphia needs Hurts to stay healthy to lead this team to another deep playoff run. But fans can rest easy knowing that, if their starting quarterback does miss time, there are capable backups waiting in the wings.
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