PHILADELPHIA – The Philadelphia Eagles showcased their depth at the quarterback position when Jalen Hurts was sidelined due to concussion protocol, and third-string quarterback Tanner McKee stepped up remarkably during his absence. This unexpected turn of events not only highlights the team's resilience but also positions them favorably as they head toward the playoffs.
Jalen Hurts, who previously led the Eagles to clinch the No. 2 seed, faced challenges after suffering his concussion during the first quarter of the Eagles' Week 16 loss to the Washington Commanders. While scrambling for yardage on a quarterback draw, Hurts was tackled by two defenders, resulting in his head slamming against the ground. Despite appearing okay initially, Hurts was sent for evaluation and was later ruled out for the remainder of the game as he entered the NFL's concussion protocol.
His absence was particularly felt during the Eagles’ fallout from the defeat, as head coach Nick Sirianni announced on the following Friday than Hurts would miss the key matchup against the Dallas Cowboys. With Hurts out, fellow quarterbacks Kenny Pickett and Tanner McKee were left to take command of the Eagle's offense. Pickett was nursing his own injury, leaving McKee as the primary signal-caller heading to the season finale against the New York Giants on January 5, 2025.
McKee, often referred to as the “Mormon Missile” by his teammates, proved he was ready for the challenge. Against the Giants, he completed 27 of 41 passes for 269 yards and tossed two touchdowns, leading the Eagles to a 20-13 victory. This performance marked McKee's first NFL start, and the impact of his play didn’t go unnoticed.
Head coach Nick Sirianni praised McKee, saying, “I thought he was in complete control of the game today. Making good decisions... We’re excited about Tanner and the player he is.” His input alongside the team’s offensive synergy seemed propelled by strong coaching and preparation, as McKee connected with various receivers, demonstrating versatility and poise.
Sirianni also commended the entire quarterback room, stating, “I love our quarterback room, starting with Jalen [Hurts] and all the great things Jalen has done this year.” This shows the depth the Eagles possess and their confidence moving forward, especially as they prepare for the playoffs against the Green Bay Packers.
After the game, McKee expressed excitement for the playoffs, saying, “14 wins is great. But we have higher standards for ourselves. We are really excited to see what we can do in the playoffs.” The team’s mentality appears firm, characterized by high ambitions and resilience even amid Hurts' absence.
With Hurts officially cleared from concussion protocols before the playoffs, he is expected to lead the team once again as they experiment with the momentum gained during McKee's unexpected start. The confidence McKee inspired during his time under center not only bodes well for the current postseason performance but also adds depth to the quarterback discussion for the Eagles as they move forward.
Throughout the last two weeks, Eagles fans have gained insight on how versatile their team can be, with McKee's emergence potentially making Kenny Pickett expendable. Analysts are now left contemplating whether McKee could serve as the Eagles’ secret weapon as they advance.
Despite Hurts being absent for these two decisive games, his future with the Eagles remains bright, and the expectation is he will reclaim the starting role as they shoot for postseason success. This team, with McKee’s rising visibility, could redefine the Eagles’ dynamic on the field as they gear up for the playoffs and beyond.
The Eagles have established themselves as formidable contenders this season, demonstrating adaptability and strength across the board. With Jalen Hurts likely returning, alongside the promising performances from both McKee and Pickett, the Eagles head for the playoffs more equipped than ever.