Quarterback Turmoil Strikes Philadelphia Amid Losing Skid
The Philadelphia Eagles are navigating a tumultuous mid-season stretch marked by injuries, roster departures, and a three-game losing streak that has placed their divisional standing in jeopardy. Franchise quarterback Jalen Hurts has been ruled out indefinitely after developing a superficial blood clot in his calf. Hurts’ absence adds to a wave of sudden adversity for the franchise, which has recently weathered the unexpected retirement of veteran tackle Lane Johnson and the trade of offensive lineman Cam Jurgens.
With Hurts sidelined, the Eagles will turn to third-year quarterback Tanner McKee to lead the offense on Sunday against the Carolina Panthers. McKee has stepped into the starting role twice before during his career, though both prior starts occurred in Week 18 matchups in 2024 and 2025 after Philadelphia had already clinched postseason berths. Sunday’s clash represents the first high-leverage start of McKee’s career, and he faces the task of managing an offense currently contending with injuries to top playmakers DeVonta Smith and Saquon Barkley.
Eagles Poach Joe Milton From Division Rival Dallas Cowboys
To guard against further instability at the game’s most critical position, Philadelphia moved decisively on Friday by signing quarterback Joe Milton directly off the Dallas Cowboys’ practice squad. The 26-year-old passer arrives as essential insurance behind McKee as the Eagles prepare for an intense slate of upcoming games with no established timeline for Hurts’ recovery.
Milton entered the league as a sixth-round pick by the New England Patriots in the 2024 NFL Draft, earning attention across the league for his exceptional arm strength and physical measurements. He was traded to Dallas last season before being waived during final roster cuts this past summer, subsequently re-signing with the Cowboys’ practice unit. Across five career regular-season appearances without a start, Milton has connected on 37 of 53 passes for 424 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions, alongside 66 rushing yards and a rushing score.
Why This Matters
The acquisition of Milton carries immediate divisional and competitive implications. Following five weeks of play, the NFC East remains wide open. The New York Giants lead the division with a 3-1-1 record, while the Eagles and Cowboys sit deadlocked at 2-3. The Washington Commanders round out the division at 1-3-1 following the recent return of quarterback Jayden Daniels.
Since Hurts established himself as Philadelphia’s full-time starter five seasons ago, the Eagles have largely controlled the division, earning three NFC East titles and capturing back-to-back crowns—a consecutive feat unmatched in the division for more than two decades. Following Sunday’s game against Carolina, Philadelphia faces a pivotal stretch of three consecutive divisional matchups. Securing reliable quarterback play has become imperative if the Eagles hope to reverse their recent slide and defend their reign in the NFC East.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the Philadelphia Eagles sign Joe Milton?
The Eagles signed Joe Milton off the Dallas Cowboys’ practice squad to provide depth and insurance at quarterback following the indefinite loss of starter Jalen Hurts, who is dealing with a superficial blood clot in his calf.
Who will start at quarterback for the Eagles against the Carolina Panthers?
Third-year quarterback Tanner McKee is scheduled to start against Carolina, marking his first career NFL start in a high-stakes, non-Week 18 scenario.
What are Joe Milton’s career NFL statistics?
In five career regular-season appearances, Milton has completed 37 of 53 pass attempts for 424 yards, two passing touchdowns, and two interceptions, while rushing for 66 yards and one touchdown.
