The Philadelphia Eagles have named Andy Dalton as their backup quarterback behind Jalen Hurts.
The Philadelphia Eagles did not name a backup quarterback ahead of the 2026 season behind Jalen Hurts until Sunday, when they faced the Washington Commanders.
The Eagles have veteran quarterback Andy Dalton behind Hurts, with Tanner McKee as their third-string quarterback.
Dalton is entering his 16th season in the league and is one of the most experienced backups. Across his career, he has completed 62.6 percent of his passes for 39,793 yards, 254 touchdowns, and 151 interceptions.
The 38-year-old most recently played for the Carolina Panthers in the 2025 season, completing 25 of 37 passes for 293 yards, a touchdown, and an interception.
He has proven he can still be an effective passer when called upon, and his veteran leadership is valuable in the locker room.
McKee, who will be the third-string quarterback for the Eagles, completed 24 of 43 passes for 274 yards, a touchdown, and an interception.
He could be a solid third quarterback for Philadelphia behind Hurts and Dalton. Hurts had a quality opening game against the Commanders, completing 14 of 25 passes for 203 yards and three touchdowns, and throwing zero interceptions, while rushing for 46 yards on seven carries.
IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters ConnectThe Eagles came away with a Week 1 win and have a promising season ahead. Hurts hit multiple weapons in the game, as Dallas Goedert had four receptions for 77 yards and two touchdowns, Dontayvion Wicks had two receptions for 73 yards and a touchdown, and DeVonta Smith had three receptions for 53 yards.
Wicks proved to be a solid piece for the offense after the team acquired him in a trade with the Green Bay Packers in the offseason.
Star running back Saquon Barkley had a solid game, totaling 83 yards on 15 carries.
There is room for improvement, but it was a solid start for Philadelphia's offense under first-year offensive coordinator Sean Mannion.
The Eagles have a quality quarterback room, and with the weapons on the roster, Dalton has the talent and experience to run the offense if Hurts goes down with an injury.
