Philadelphia – In a surprising shift for the Eagles, head coach Nick Sirianni announced Tuesday that backup quarterback Tanner McKee will be replaced by Joe Milton, a recent addition from the Dallas Cowboys’ practice squad. The decision arrives only two days after Sirianni publicly affirmed McKee’s role, saying, “Tanner’s our guy. We’re not making any changes there.”
Why the change matters
The Eagles have struggled to find consistency on offense since Jalen Hurts was sidelined with blood clots earlier this season. McKee started the last three games, all of which resulted in losses, extending the team’s overall slide to six straight defeats after an opening 2‑0 record. Sirianni emphasized that the responsibility for the downturn lies with the coaching staff, whether the issue stems from scheme, execution, or mental errors.
Joe Milton’s background
Milton, a sixth‑round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft out of the University of Tennessee, began his professional career with the New England Patriots. After one season, he was traded to the Dallas Cowboys, where he served as Dak Prescott’s backup throughout 2025. Milton has appeared in five NFL games, including a full‑game effort for the Patriots in Week 18 of the 2024 season, completing 22 of 29 passes for 241 yards, one passing touchdown, and one rushing touchdown against the Buffalo Bills.
During his stint with the Cowboys last season, Milton completed 15 of 24 passes for 183 yards, throwing one touchdown and two interceptions across four games. His work ethic has earned praise from Sirianni, who noted that Milton and quarterback coach Parks Frazier have spent extensive time together to get him up to speed with the Eagles’ playbook.
What’s next for Philadelphia
The Eagles will give Milton his first start this Sunday when they face the New York Giants, who sit at 4‑2‑1. The move represents the fourth quarterback to take snaps for Philadelphia this season, joining Jalen Hurts, Tanner McKee, and former starter Andy Dalton, who was released after an interception on his lone pass against the Chicago Bears.
Fans and local commentators will be watching closely to see whether Milton can provide the spark the team desperately needs. While the change does not guarantee an immediate turnaround, the coaching staff hopes the fresh look at the quarterback position will improve execution and morale as the season progresses.
Community reaction
Philadelphia supporters have expressed a mix of optimism and concern on social media. Some praised Sirianni for taking decisive action, while others questioned the rapid shift after publicly supporting McKee. Local sports analysts note that the Eagles’ front office has been active in seeking depth at the quarterback position, highlighted by the recent signing of Milton from the Cowboys’ practice squad on October 16.
Regardless of the outcome, the decision underscores the organization’s commitment to finding solutions and restoring the team’s competitiveness for the remainder of the season.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
