What's Happening?
The Green Bay Packers have announced the signing of quarterback Kyle McCord, a sixth-round pick from the Philadelphia Eagles' 2025 draft class. McCord, who spent the entire 2025 season on the Eagles' practice
squad, is set to join the Packers as they prepare for the 2026 offseason. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 218 pounds, McCord is a former Ohio State and Syracuse player. During his college career, he backed up C.J. Stroud at Ohio State before transferring to Syracuse, where he set records and finished 10th in Heisman Trophy voting. Despite his potential, McCord's preseason performance with the Eagles was underwhelming, with a completion rate of 42.9% and a passer rating of 43.1. The Packers currently have Malik Willis and Desmond Ridder as backup quarterbacks, both of whom will become free agents in March. McCord is expected to compete for a backup role, likely starting on the practice squad.
Why It's Important?
The signing of Kyle McCord by the Packers is significant as it highlights the team's strategy to bolster their quarterback depth ahead of the 2026 season. With current backups Malik Willis and Desmond Ridder approaching free agency, McCord's addition provides the Packers with a developmental option who could potentially grow into a more prominent role. This move reflects the Packers' proactive approach in securing talent that can be nurtured over time, ensuring stability in their quarterback lineup. For McCord, this opportunity offers a chance to develop under the guidance of the Packers' coaching staff, potentially leading to a more substantial role in the future. The decision also underscores the competitive nature of NFL roster management, where teams continuously seek to optimize their player selections to maintain a competitive edge.
What's Next?
As the Packers head into the offseason, the focus will be on evaluating McCord's development and potential fit within the team's quarterback hierarchy. The upcoming free agency period will be crucial, as decisions regarding the retention of current backups Willis and Ridder will impact McCord's standing. Additionally, the Packers may consider drafting another quarterback in April, which could further influence McCord's role. The team's coaching staff will likely work closely with McCord to enhance his skills and address areas of inconsistency observed during his preseason with the Eagles. The Packers' management will also monitor the broader quarterback market to ensure they have a robust lineup ready for the 2026 season.
