The Philadelphia Eaglesâ first showing during the 2026 NFL Preseason was far from inspiring. From an offensive standpoint, the game was a flop. For the quarterbacks battling for the primary backup job behind Jalen Hurts, they struggled to get a leg up on the competition.
Nick Sirianni and Sean Mannion havenât been showing their hand when it comes to the QB2 frontrunner. The coaches have made it clear that a battle is underwayâand nobody has won it.
The Eaglesâ preseason Game 1 depth chart showed Tanner McKee and Andy Dalton sharing the No. 2 spot. However, if you read deep into the starter of the first game, then you might see Andy Dalton as the player in the lead. Nick Sirianni addressed Dalton as the starter after the action and confirmed that the battle is still ongoing.
Eagles Make One Thing Clear About Andy Dalton, Tanner McKee Battle
GettyBALTIMORE, MD – AUGUST 15: Head coach Nick Sirianni of the Philadelphia Eagles looks on during the first half of the preseason game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium on August 15, 2026 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
âNothingâs decided. Andy has played a lot of football. I think heâs had 160-plus starts. Tanner has had two starts. I just wanted to make sure that Tanner continues to develop in live action,â Sirianni told reporters after the game.
âAndy has had a lot of live action and wanted him to get some. Thatâs just how we decided to do it today. Weâve been rotating them in practice. I think both of them continue to grow within the offense, and this is what we decided.â
Dalton was told he was starting Week 1. He was also told that the order could change next weekend. Therefore, the Eagles arenât ready to make the call just yet.
Andy Dalton vs Baltimore Ravens
GettyBALTIMORE, MD – AUGUST 15: Andy Dalton #14 of the Philadelphia Eagles looks to hand the ball off to Tank Bigsby #8 during the first half of the preseason game at M&T Bank Stadium on August 15, 2026 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
Dalton played in the first quarter, where the Ravens dominated in possession. The veteran quarterback went 3-for-6 in the air, producing 20 yards. He didnât throw for any touchdowns or interceptions.
The 38-year-old might be well beyond his Pro Bowl years, but he carries plenty of experience with him. Dalton was an offseason acquisition from the Carolina Panthers for the Eagles.
The veteran quarterback has thrown for 293 yards, one touchdown, and one interception over his four showings with the Carolina Panthers last season.
Tanner McKeeâs Showing vs Ravens
GettyBALTIMORE, MD – AUGUST 15: Tanner McKee #16 of the Philadelphia Eagles attempts a pass against the Baltimore Ravens during the first half of the preseason game at M&T Bank Stadium on August 15, 2026 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
McKee didnât do much better running the offense. The veteran backup completed six of his 10 passes for 35 yards, zero touchdowns and zero interceptions.
Unlike Dalton, McKee is on the younger side, but doesnât carry a ton of experience. While he has been the Eaglesâ primary backup over the past season, the Eagles clearly arenât giving him the job by default.
Next week could include McKee as the starter over Dalton, but Week 1 against the Ravens clearly didnât contribute to a difference. Sirianniâs mind remains unchanged.
On Saturday, August 22, the Eagles will pay a visit to the New England Patriots.
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