The Philadelphia Eagles are making a major quarterback change mid-season, promoting Joe Milton to starter and demoting Tanner McKee, a move head coach Nick Sirianni confirmed Friday was all about winning right now. Sirianni spoke to reporters, laying out the thought process behind shaking up their struggling offense just weeks after Milton even joined the roster.
Why the Eagles Felt Milton Was the Move Now
This wasn’t some easy call, according to Sirianni. He made it clear that while it’s tough to make these decisions because it’s never just on one person, he felt McKee actually played “solid.” But “this is just what I felt like we needed to do right at this particular moment to give ourselves the best chance to win this weekend,” Sirianni explained. Milton’s got talent, no doubt, and the Eagles have seen it since he arrived a couple of weeks ago. Sirianni highlighted Milton’s “talented arm,” “talented athlete” capabilities, and his ability to “process and make decisions.” He’s impressed with Milton’s “confidence and everything that he brings,” saying it’s been “fun getting to know him and working with him.” The coach emphasized the urgency, stating they chose to make the switch *now* instead of waiting for the bye week because the goal is to “win each and every game.”
The Process and the Covert Decision
Every big decision in Philly is a deep dive, Sirianni revealed. He collaborates extensively with General Manager Howie Roseman and the entire offensive staff, including Parks Frazier and Sean Mannion. While it’s ultimately his call as the head coach to do what’s best for the team, he makes sure everyone’s in the loop and discussing every angle. Interestingly, Sirianni admitted that just a few days earlier, after Monday’s film review from the Sunday night game, the initial plan was for McKee to keep his job. But after further review and planning for the upcoming game, they opted to go “in another direction.” It’s also worth noting, despite the QB change, there are “no changes to coaches roles.” Sirianni also acknowledged that McKee was operating an offense “decimated by injuries,” something they consider when evaluating players. However, he firmly believes everyone has to perform their best regardless of circumstances, and they aim to evaluate everyone fairly.
Sirianni’s Stance on Secrecy
The head coach also addressed why he kept the media, and by extension, the opponent, in the dark about the QB change. It’s a strategic play, pure and simple. Sirianni confirmed he only tells the media what he wants them to know, especially for sensitive decisions like this one. “Every second that goes by in a situation like that, that you can hold onto information as long as you possibly can, is a little less time for the opponent to get ready for the game,” he stated. He knows fans and media want all the details, but for him, “My job is to win football games.” He also threw his full support behind the entire quarterback room, reiterating his long-standing belief in the players they have at the position.
The Eagles are clearly all in on making a push for victories, and Joe Milton is now at the helm for that mission. It’s a bold move, but Sirianni is betting it’s the one that gives them the best shot.
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.
Leave a Reply