Tanner McKee is the rookie quarterback who has been promoted to the top backup position behind Jalen Hurts for the Philadelphia Eagles.

How did McKee earn the Eagles' No. 2 QB job?

McKee impressed the Eagles' coaching staff with his performance in preseason games over the past two summers. He also relieved an injured Kenny Pickett last season, leading the team to clinch the NFC East division title.

What is McKee's role with the Eagles?

As the new No. 2 quarterback, McKee will be Jalen Hurts' primary backup. He is expected to play a series or more in the Eagles' upcoming preseason game against the Cincinnati Bengals.

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Rookie QB Tanner McKee Elevated to Eagles' Top Backup

7 Aug

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Summary

Tanner McKee promoted to Eagles' No. 2 QB behind Jalen Hurts
McKee impressed in preseason games over the past two summers
McKee relieved injured Pickett, led Eagles to NFC East clinch

Rookie QB Tanner McKee Elevated to Eagles' Top Backup

In the lead-up to the 2025 NFL season, the Philadelphia Eagles have promoted rookie quarterback Tanner McKee to the top backup position behind starter Jalen Hurts. McKee, who was drafted by the Eagles in 2023, has been steadily impressing the coaching staff over the past two preseasons, using those games to showcase his abilities.

Last season, McKee got the chance to prove himself in a regular-season game when he relieved an injured Kenny Pickett against the Dallas Cowboys. McKee went 3-for-4 with 54 yards and two touchdowns, helping the Eagles clinch the NFC East division title. He then started the regular-season finale against the Giants, completing 27 of 41 passes for 269 yards and two more touchdowns.

With Pickett now traded to the Browns, the path has been cleared for McKee to solidify his role as Hurts' primary backup. Eagles general manager Howie Roseman has expressed confidence in McKee's ability to step in and lead the offense if needed. McKee is eager to make the most of this opportunity, saying he will be ready to "move the ball and move the offense how it's supposed to be run" if called upon.

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