The Philadelphia Eagles have acquired Andy Dalton from the Carolina Panthers in exchange for a 2027 seventh-round pick, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
This is a low-risk deal to stabilize the back end of the quarterback room. At 38, Dalton isn’t here to compete with Jalen Hurts or even Tanner McKee; he is here to take over the role that Sam Howell left behind.
Philadelphia has been intentional about building its quarterback room in recent years, and this is just another example of insulating itself in the event that QB3 ever has to step on the field.
Hurts is one of the league’s most dynamic dual-threat QBs, and Tanner McKee has developed into a reliable QB2 option, offering size, poise, and system familiarity. Dalton will fit in nicely with his experience, and the hope is that he never sees the field unless it is in a meaningless game.
Dalton started one game in 2025, throwing for 293 yards, a touchdown, and an interception.
For a team with championship expectations, the third quarterback spot isn’t about upside; it’s about survivability. It is about having a QB who can help out in the meeting room, is competent enough to diagnose a blitz, and be prepared to start in a pinch if injuries occur. Dalton checks every box and can serve as a sounding board for Hurts and McKee.
This is a low-cost insurance policy and an example of Philadelphia always being prepared.
As always, thank you for reading!
Follow me on X @DavidNeiszPHL
