Tanner McKee to start for Eagles as Jalen Hurts placed on injured reserve
Quarterback Tanner McKee will lead Philadelphia for at least the next month after Jalen Hurts was sidelined with a blood clot, while the team copes with multiple injuries on offense.
Philadelphia will start rookie quarterback Tanner McKee for the upcoming game against the Carolina Panthers after starter Jalen Hurts was placed on injured reserve because of a superficial blood clot. Hurts is expected to miss the Panthers game and at least three additional contests, extending the Eagles' recent losing streak.
McKee, who replaced Andy Dalton earlier in the season, has previously started two games in Week 18 when the outcome did not affect the playoff picture. In his most recent start, he completed 21 of 40 passes for 241 yards, one touchdown and one interception.
The Eagles entered the week with 24 players listed on the injury report, including five offensive players on injured reserve. The offensive line has been further depleted by the retirement of right tackle Lane Johnson and the trade of left guard Cam Jurgens. Center Drew Kendall is being monitored after a knee issue, while Tyler Steen dealt with a shoulder injury and left guard Landon Dickerson remains on injured reserve but is eligible to practice.
Wide receiver DeVonta Smith returned to practice, but running backs Saquon Barkley and Will Shipley missed practice due to hamstring and foot injuries, respectively. Receiver Dontayvion Wicks was also sidelined with a hamstring problem. With Tank Bigsby on injured reserve, the running back depth chart now lists Dameon Pierce and Carson Steele as the primary options.
Head coach Nick Sirianni praised McKee’s accuracy and decision-making, noting that the rookie has thrown only one interception in 88 NFL pass attempts. Offensive coordinator Sean Mannion will need to design a game plan that leverages McKee’s pocket-passing strengths while compensating for the weakened line and limited rushing options.
The Eagles face a challenging stretch that includes games against the Dallas Cowboys, Washington Commanders and New York Giants before a Week 10 bye on Nov. 9. The trade deadline follows the bye on Nov. 10, and the team’s front office may consider roster moves depending on the outcomes of the remaining games.