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Tanner McKee to Start for Eagles as Jalen Hurts Lands on Injured Reserve
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- Tanner McKee to Start for Eagles as Jalen Hurts Lands on Injured Reserve
The Philadelphia Eagles are adding another option to a depleted backfield, signing Jaydon Blue from the practice squad ahead of Sunday's matchup with the Carolina Panthers. The move comes with Saquon Barkley ruled out because of a hamstring injury.
Blue's promotion follows more losses at running back. Will Shipley went on injured reserve Friday with a partial tear of the plantar fascia, while Tank Bigsby is also on injured reserve with a core muscle injury. Blue joins Dameon Pierce and Carson Steele as Philadelphia's available backs.
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The Eagles announced Blue's move Saturday after placing quarterback Jalen Hurts on injured reserve because of a superficial blood clot in his calf. Tanner McKee is expected to start against Carolina, giving the offense another major adjustment.
Blue is entering his second NFL season after Dallas selected him in the fifth round of the 2025 draft. He appeared in five games as a rookie, totaling 129 rushing yards and one touchdown on 38 carries before the Cowboys released him this summer.
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Philadelphia signed Blue to its practice squad on Sept. 1. Sunday's game could offer his first chance to contribute in an Eagles uniform. His speed adds another option, but his workload will depend on how the coaching staff distributes carries among the available backs.
Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley (26)Steve Roberts-Imagn Images
Pierce and Steele should also see opportunities as Philadelphia tries to cover Barkley's absence. The Eagles will need their running backs to help keep the offense balanced while McKee adjusts to starting duties.
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Barkley's absence remains the central concern. The former NFL Offensive Player of the Year is sidelined with a hamstring injury, and Philadelphia will face Carolina without him or Shipley. Blue's promotion adds needed depth, but the Eagles still must find a dependable committee approach in Week 6. There is little room for additional injuries or setbacks.
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This story was originally published by Athlon on Oct 18, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
