Eagles’ Tanner McKee Dealing with Finger Injury Ahead of Week 1: Status Uncertain for Backup QB Role

The Philadelphia Eagles may face uncertainty at the quarterback position as rookie signal-caller Tanner McKee is reportedly dealing with a finger injury on his throwing hand. McKee, a promising young backup to starting quarterback Jalen Hurts, has been sidelined since early this past week and did not participate in any team practices.

The injury was confirmed following the Eagles’ narrow 19-17 preseason win over the New York Jets, when head coach Nick Sirianni addressed media questions about McKee’s absence. Sirianni stated that the team is monitoring the situation closely and that McKee is working towards recovery. However, no definitive timeline was provided, leaving his availability for Week 1 in doubt.

McKee was projected as a potential backup to Hurts, but his injury throws a wrench into the Eagles’ depth chart planning. With uncertainty surrounding McKee’s status, the team made a notable move by acquiring quarterback Sam Howell in a trade on Sunday, hinting at concerns over McKee’s short-term availability.

Is Tanner McKee’s Injury a Concern for the Eagles’ Quarterback Depth?

Tanner McKee’s injury is particularly concerning given his role as a developmental quarterback with potential upside. The finger injury on his throwing hand could impact his mechanics, grip, and overall effectiveness—especially for a young player still adjusting to the pace and physicality of the NFL.

The Eagles had been grooming McKee through the offseason and preseason, and his absence from practice this past week underscores the seriousness of the issue. While coach Sirianni offered no alarming updates, the vague nature of his comments and the team’s acquisition of another quarterback are indicators that McKee’s status remains fluid.

If McKee is unable to go for Week 1, it places additional pressure on the team’s other quarterback options, particularly Kyle McCord, who saw extended playing time in the preseason finale. However, McCord’s performance—15 of 35 passes for 136 yards and one interception—was less than stellar, raising further questions about the team’s backup plans.

Eagles Add Sam Howell as Insurance, Signal Depth Chart Shift

Philadelphia’s trade for Sam Howell may be a precautionary move, but it also reflects the coaching staff’s concern about having a reliable QB2 behind Hurts. With McKee’s injury potentially lingering into the regular season, Howell could leapfrog others on the depth chart depending on his grasp of the system and performance in practice.

Kyle McCord, despite winning the QB3 battle against Dorian Thompson-Robinson, lacks the poise and execution the Eagles need in high-leverage moments. If McKee remains unavailable and McCord fails to inspire confidence, Howell may be called upon sooner than expected.

It’s important to note that while McKee has shown strong developmental potential, finger injuries—particularly to a quarterback’s throwing hand—can take unpredictable paths in recovery. The team is unlikely to rush his return without full confidence in his ability to execute plays cleanly and avoid re-injury.

What This Means for Week 1 and the Eagles’ Offense

With Week 1 looming, the Eagles’ coaching staff will be forced to make quick decisions regarding their quarterback depth chart. Tanner McKee’s injury is now a central storyline, especially for a team with playoff aspirations and a high-powered offense led by Jalen Hurts.

The Eagles are expected to monitor McKee’s rehab throughout the week, and any updates will likely come from coach Sirianni’s next media session. In the meantime, Howell and McCord will share backup responsibilities during practice as the team prepares for its season opener.

This developing situation could influence roster moves and practice squad assignments leading up to the final 53-man deadline. It also reinforces the need for depth and flexibility in the NFL—especially at the quarterback position.

Tanner McKee injury will remain a key storyline in the coming days. With questions still surrounding his Week 1 status, fans and analysts alike will be keeping a close eye on practice reports and official injury updates from the Eagles’ camp.

For your information:

What is Tanner McKee’s injury?
Tanner McKee is dealing with a finger injury on his throwing hand, which has kept him out of practice for nearly a week.

Will Tanner McKee be ready for Week 1?
As of now, there is no confirmed timeline for McKee’s return. Head coach Nick Sirianni has stated the team is “monitoring” the situation.

Who will back up Jalen Hurts if McKee is out?
If McKee is unavailable, Kyle McCord or recently acquired Sam Howell may serve as the primary backup for Week 1.

Why did the Eagles trade for Sam Howell?
The trade suggests the Eagles are concerned about quarterback depth due to McKee’s injury and McCord’s underwhelming preseason performance.

Is McKee’s injury long-term?
There is no official indication that it’s a long-term injury, but the team is proceeding cautiously to ensure full recovery.