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Key takeaways from Eagles acquiring QB Andy Dalton from Panthers
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- Key takeaways from Eagles acquiring QB Andy Dalton from Panthers
In a move that could create some uncertainty around Tanner McKee , the Eagles traded a 2027 seventh-round pick to the Carolina Panthers to acquire backup quarterback Andy Dalton . Dalton departs after the Panthers signed Kenny Pickett last week to back up starter Bryce Young . In Philadelphia, Dalton will join a depth chart that includes starter Jalen Hurts and backup Tanner McKee.
The NFL is the ultimate arms race, and you can never have enough good quarterbacks. The Eagles have a factory, and Tanner McKee could again be a valuable asset during free agency and the NFL draft frenzy. Nearly one year ago today, McKee was thrust into the spotlight, and he delivered on the moment, making himself one of the hottest commodities.
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With the move complete, we're looking at key takeaways from the trade and its impact on McKee.
Dalton brings experience
Dalton, 38, appeared in four games last season, making one start for Carolina when Young was injured. He completed 67.6% of his pass attempts for 293 yards with one touchdown and one interception. The 15-year veteran has thrown for 3,539 yards in his career with 254 touchdowns and 141 interceptions
What it means for Tanner McKee
The 2025 off-season came and went, and Pickett was traded to the Browns, while McKee was elevated to the No. 2 quarterback role. Howie Roseman made it clear McKee was off-limits for any trade, and the Birds went 11-5 in the regular season, recording back-to-back NFC East titles, and needing a big win in the Week 18 matchup against Washington. McKee started the season finale with the opportunity to help Philadelphia move into the No. 2 seed with a Bears loss to the Packers . Things didn't work out, as McKee was 21-40 passing, one touchdown, one interception, and a 68.9 rating, a far cry from his 2024 debut.
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NFL Draft impact
Mike Tomlin has been replaced by Mike McCarthy, and the 38-year-old Aaron Rodgers isn't guaranteed to return. McKee could be the long-term answer for a team that's not bad enough to earn a top ten pick.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: What Andy Dalton trade means for Eagles QB depth chart
