Should Tanner McKee Be the Eagles’ Backup QB for the Playoffs
The Eagles face a tough decision on who should back up Jalen Hurts in the playoffs
Tanner McKee, Jalen Hurts, Kenny Pickett, Philadelphia, NFL
Philadelphia: The Eagles are in a bit of a pickle. Jalen Hurts is still in concussion protocol, and they need to figure out who will back him up if he’s ready to go. It’s between Kenny Pickett and Tanner McKee.
Both guys have shown they can play, but McKee has really stepped up lately. With Pickett nursing a rib injury, it might be the perfect time to give McKee a shot.
Coach Nick Sirianni is usually pretty tight-lipped about these things. When asked about switching the backup, he just praised both players. He’s got confidence in them, which is good, but it doesn’t really help us know what’s going to happen.
On one hand, the Eagles traded for Pickett because they wanted someone with experience. But McKee has been impressive, especially in the last couple of weeks. Plus, if Pickett isn’t 100%, that’s a big factor.
We might not know the final decision until just before the game on Sunday. For most of the season, Hurts has been the starter, with Pickett backing him up and McKee as the third-stringer. But things have changed a bit lately.
Pickett had to step in a few weeks ago but got hurt, and McKee came in and played really well. He even managed to keep things rolling in a win last week, which is no small feat.
Looking at their stats, McKee has a higher completion rate and a better passer rating than Pickett this season. That’s pretty telling, especially since McKee has been making smart plays and showing he can handle the pressure.
Even if the Eagles stick with Pickett for now, McKee’s performance raises some questions for the offseason. If they decide to trade one of their backups, McKee might just be the guy they want to keep around.