The Philadelphia Eagles wanted Andy Dalton back in the building after Jalen Hurts’ blood clot situation, but the Red Rifle reportedly flat out said no. According to a report from Pro Football Talk, Dalton “politely declined” the offer to return to Philly. Instead, the Eagles had to pivot, signing Joe Milton III off the Dallas Cowboys’ practice squad last week. Milton III might be in town, but he definitely wasn’t the first choice.
The Eagles’ Brief, Bumpy Ride with Dalton
Remember Dalton’s first stint this season? It was a blink-and-you-miss-it kind of situation. He actually started the 2026 season as Philly’s No. 2 quarterback, backing up Jalen Hurts. But his time there went sideways fast. Dalton threw an interception on his *sole pass attempt* as an Eagle, and just like that, he was demoted to No. 3. The team then decided to release him on the Friday right before their Week 5 game. There was some talk back then that maybe, just maybe, he could come back. But now, it’s clear Dalton is moving on. PFT says he’s heading to a new team as soon as tomorrow.
Declined But Maybe for the Best?
It’s a bit of a bummer the Eagles couldn’t get their guy, even if it was a guy who just got cut. But honestly, it might be for the best. Dalton is turning 39 later this month, and the report mentioned he looked “physically diminished” and really struggled during offseason practices and preseason games. With the Eagles potentially looking at a lost season, bringing in an aging QB who isn’t good enough to help in the short-term and offers zero long-term upside just doesn’t make sense. You can’t argue with that logic.
For Week 6, the Eagles rolled out rookie Cole Payton as their No. 2, with Milton III as the emergency third quarterback. Look, these guys probably aren’t going to be long-term solutions in Philly, but there’s a non-zero chance they could surprise everyone. It could actually be interesting to see what Payton or Milton III can do if they get a shot. That’s a lot more than you could say for seeing Dalton in an Eagles uniform again.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Bleeding Green Nation.
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