To fill Hurts’ roster spot, the Eagles signed quarterback Joe Milton off the Dallas Cowboys’ practice squad. Milton wasn’t the initial target for Philadelphia, as the team explored other options before signing Milton as their third quarterback.
Milton’s addition came after the team considered bringing back a veteran signal-caller. Reports indicate that the Eagles were in talks to re-sign Andy Dalton, who ultimately declined and chose to sign elsewhere, prompting the decision to add Milton.
Dalton previously joined Philadelphia in the offseason and appeared in one game, throwing an interception on his lone pass attempt in Week 3 against the Chicago Bears before being released about a week later. Dalton has had a long NFL career with three Pro Bowls, most of them earned with the Cincinnati Bengals, and has accumulated significant passing totals across his career.
The situation surrounding Dalton’s earlier flirtation with the Eagles suggests there may have been some hard feelings on Dalton’s end after his exit. Despite that, the team remains confident in Milton’s potential as a backup to McKee. Milton is known for a strong arm and mobility, which could be valuable if he needs to step in.
Philadelphia now has a younger quarterback room, with McKee having familiarity with the team dating back to 2023. McKee had an up-and-down first start of the season, throwing for 215 yards and a touchdown against the Panthers. Over the coming weeks, the quarterback situation will draw plenty of attention as the team evaluates how Milton, Payton, and Dalton fit into the plan behind McKee. If the group struggles, the Dalton option—despite a costly mistake against the Bears—may loom larger in discussions, but for now the organization is putting its faith in McKee to lead when Hurts isn’t available.
For now, the focus is on how the new quarterback dynamic shapes the Eagles’ approach and results, with McKee at the helm and Milton, Payton, and Dalton as the surrounding options.
