The Philadelphia Eagles' backup quarterback situation remains an interesting preseason debate, with neither depth option claiming the open role. After the franchise traded away Kenny Pickett, there was an opening behind Jalen Hurts and Tanner McKee. One that rookie Kyle McCord was supposed to fill as an obvious project quarterback. However, early preseason results have been ugly enough to wonder if the Eagles might make a change at the position ahead of the regular season.
Preseason stats can be misleading, dependent on the player and the quality of competition. Much of what can be learned is through watching the reps and seeing how comfortable players look in a new role. McCord jumps off the tape in the absolute worst ways. The obvious anxiety and lack of grasp on running an NFL offense leave the franchise little choice but to turn the page on a player they hoped would be a depth answer.
McCord was selected in the 6th round with the belief that the rookie would be able to benefit from being added to an established contender. There is as little pressure on McCord as is possible at the NFL level. All the rookie needed to do was show flashes of potential and become the third option behind Hurts and McKee.
The Eagles Might Be Forced to Part Ways with Rookie QB Kyle McCord
It is safe to say that the rookie needs an incredibly strong finish to the preseason for this to still be the case. While there was a nice preseason touchdown toss, the majority of McCord's reps can be used as great examples of how not to play the position. The quarterback appears overmatched and far out of his comfort zone.
If this is how the rookie looks against depth players and future roster cuts, it is safe to wonder how awful things might be in real action. While you never want your emergency quarterback to enter a game, you at least want to roster a player you believe gives you a puncher's chance. McCord simply has shown zero reason to believe this is the case.
Philadelphia should consider making another move at the position, moving off the rookie and veteran Dorian Thompson-Robinson. Neither quarterback gives you an exciting development option or the experience you hope to have from the emergency role. With this in mind, it seems very probable that McCord's time in Philly is over before it has truly begun.