The Philadelphia Eagles drafted Tanner McKee in the sixth round of the 2023 NFL Draft, adding depth to a position already anchored by franchise star and now Super Bowl MVP Jalen Hurts. Entering his third season in the NFL, McKee finds himself in a promising position.
With the offseason trade of Kenny Pickett, competition for the backup quarterback spot has thinned, giving McKee a clear opportunity to secure the role directly behind Hurts on the depth chart. For a team fresh off a Super Bowl victory and looking to repeat as champions, having a reliable second option at the game’s most important position is a necessity, not a luxury.
Recently, McKee spoke with the kat_and_kenpholk podcast, where he reflected on the team’s joint practices with the Cleveland Browns. He emphasized how facing a different defense helps quarterbacks refine their decision-making.
Eagles QB Tanner McKee Embracing the Joint Practice Challenge
These joint practices, which simulate live-game scenarios without the stakes of an actual contest, allow McKee to work against unfamiliar defensive schemes. For a young quarterback, those experiences are invaluable and can reveal weaknesses to address while building confidence in executing plays under varying conditions.
Philadelphia’s quarterback situation has been remarkably stable with Hurts under center, but the NFL is unpredictable. One awkward tackle or rolled ankle could put McKee in the spotlight. Securing the backup job would not only provide him with a more prominent role this season but also position him as a long-term option for the Eagles should they ever need a reliable starter in Hurts’ absence.
As preseason continues, McKee’s task is straightforward but challenging: stack good practices, limit turnovers, command the huddle, and prove that the moment won’t be too big if his number is called. With continued growth, sharper reads, and a strong preseason showing, he could make the leap from intriguing developmental arm to an essential piece of Philadelphia’s quarterback depth.