Philadelphia Eagles name Joe Milton starting quarterback over Tanner McKee

The Philadelphia Eagles are making a significant change at quarterback, naming Joe Milton the starter for Sunday's matchup against the New York Giants over Tanner McKee. The decision comes as the team looks to halt a six-game losing streak that has dropped their record to 2-6 and placed them at the bottom of the NFC East.

Milton, a 26-year-old quarterback in his first season with Philadelphia, is set to make his first career NFL start. The Eagles signed Milton to their 53-man roster off the Dallas Cowboys' practice squad on October 16. Across five career relief appearances with the New England Patriots and Dallas Cowboys, Milton has completed 37 of 53 passes for 424 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions, while also rushing for 66 yards and a touchdown.

The quarterback switch was first reported on Wednesday, coming shortly after head coach Nick Sirianni had previously expressed commitment to McKee. Speaking on Wednesday, Sirianni praised Milton's dedication since arriving in Philadelphia. "I think he’s worked really hard," Sirianni said. "Him and Parks have spent a ton of time together, getting him caught up to speed... He works extremely hard. He is always in the building, doing the extra things. I like his progression."

McKee had been starting for the Eagles since franchise quarterback Jalen Hurts was sidelined for the remainder of the season due to blood clots. During his three starts, McKee went 0-3 while completing 63.2 percent of his passes for 638 yards, throwing two touchdowns and two interceptions. The offense struggled to generate points under McKee, managing only 14 points against the Carolina Panthers, 21 against the Cowboys, and 10 against the Washington Commanders.

The Eagles' backup quarterback situation has been in flux throughout the season. Prior to turning to McKee, the team rotated Andy Dalton and McKee during the summer before releasing Dalton early in the year. With the offense searching for a spark, the coaching staff opted to pivot to Milton just weeks after his arrival from Dallas.

Originally selected in the sixth round of the 2024 NFL Draft by the Patriots out of Tennessee, Milton has drawn attention for his physical tools and strong arm. As the Eagles prepare to face the Giants on Sunday, the organization hopes Milton can inject new life into an offense that has stalled during the team's lengthy skid.