The first Philadelphia Eagles preseason game is in the books, and with it is put to bed any thought that there is a competition for the backup quarterback spot. Tanner McKee put on an absolute clinic, destroying the Cincy defense and moving the ball at will. McKee was already expected to be the second option based on how the season ended. It was what allowed the Eagles the confidence to trade away Kenny Pickett.
As a piece of this trade, the Eagles brought back Dorian Thompson-Robinson, who was expected to be an afterthought. Drafting Kyle McCord appeared to answer what Philly's depth chart would look like to start the season. Jalen Hurts, McKee, and McCord were the assumed answers, with the veteran likely being the odd man out.
However, the first preseason game has flipped this narrative on its head. There is no defense of McCord, who looked shockingly awful. The rookie appeared to be in far over his head, tossing an interception and having poor timing. It is important to remember that at this point of the game, McCord was playing against depth pieces and future roster cuts.
The Bengals already have a questionable starting defense, and McCord looking like this against depth pieces provided an opportunity. One that Thompson-Robinson took full advantage of, pushing the rookie behind him on the depth chart and showing who the best third option might be.
Eagles Quarterback Depth Chart in for a Change after First Preseason Action
Heading into this game, there was reason to believe Thompson-Robinson was a possible trade piece or a likely roster cut. The veteran quarterback appeared to be the odd man out after the Eagles used a draft pick on McCord as the emergency option. Throwing away a draft pick didn't seem likely for the organization.
This game completely flips the expectations with just how lost the rookie looked on the football field. Thompson-Robinson didn't hesitate to take full advantage of this, as an experienced veteran is expected to at this stage.
It should be enough to begin to reconsider the quarterback's standing with the organization and at least flip spots with McCord heading into the second week of the preseason. The rookie needs to do very little to be able to surpass the veteran. However, for the time being, there is no denying Thompson-Robinson has taken advantage of the opportunity.
It makes the trade of Kenny Pickett age even better as McKee lights it up in the first preseason game, and Thompson-Robinson appears to give you the same capability as the former Philly backup. No question, it is a story to continue to keep a close eye on heading into the second preseason game.