Despite earlier theories, the Philadelphia Eagles aren't ready to name a backup quarterback. As training camp gets underway, head coach Nick Sirianni confirmed that Tanner McKee and veteran Andy Dalton will continue to rotate with the second-team offense. That extends the competition that began during the spring.
"Everything is a competition," Sirianni said. "We'll continue to rotate."
Nick Sirianni was asked about the backup QB battle between Andy Dalton and Tanner McKee: pic.twitter.com/n5eLbgEgsX
— Jason Dumas (@JDumasReports) July 29, 2026
That's hardly a surprise. The Eagles have long embraced competition throughout the roster, and Sirianni believes it brings out the best in every player. Quarterback is no exception, even if Jalen Hurts' status as the unquestioned starter leaves the only
real battle behind him.
Sirianni was quick to point out that the rotation shouldn't be viewed as a lack of confidence in McKee. Instead, he emphasized Dalton's experience after 15 NFL seasons, noting the veteran has played plenty of football and deserves an opportunity to compete for the role. The coach also reiterated his confidence in the room as a whole, saying he loves the group and specifically praising McKee's development.
Nick Sirianni said Andy Dalton and Tanner McKee will continue to split reps at QB2: pic.twitter.com/ShvLL1rd95
— Zach Berman (@ZBerm) July 29, 2026
For McKee, the competition represents another opportunity to prove he's ready for a larger role after spending the early part of his career learning behind Hurts. Dalton, meanwhile, brings the experience of a quarterback who has started more than 170 NFL gamesand understands exactly what's expected of a veteran backup.
The Eagles likely won't rush this decision. There's little reason to do so, especially with several weeks of practices and preseason games still ahead. Both quarterbacks should receive ample opportunities to work with the second-team offense before Philadelphia settles on its depth chart.
Whether McKee ultimately wins the job, whether he's eventually traded or Dalton's experience prevails, Sirianni has made one thing clear. No position is handed out simply because of expectations. In Philadelphia, even the backup quarterback spot has to be earned.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Nick Sirianni keeps Eagles backup quarterback competition wide open
