Jalen Hurts is officially out for Week 6 against the Panthers, sidelined by a blood clot in his calf, and that means Tanner McKee is stepping up for his first meaningful NFL start. It’s a shocking development that nobody in Philly saw coming, and now this 2023 sixth-round pick is suddenly under the brightest spotlight.
McKee’s Wild Ride to the Starting Spot
It’s been a bit of a rollercoaster for McKee this season, even before this bombshell. He actually slid all the way down to No. 3 on the depth chart before Week 1, which had to sting for a guy trying to prove himself. But give him credit, he clawed his way back to the No. 2 spot, just in time for this wild card. His only other starts? A couple of “throwaway” Week 18 games after the Eagles had already locked up their postseason spot. Those are basically glorified preseason games when you’re playing with nothing on the line. This Sunday against the Panthers? That’s not a throwaway. That’s the real deal, baby.
“Huge Opportunity” for the Underdog
McKee isn’t shying away from the magnitude of it all. He told reporters Thursday that every chance he gets to play is a “huge opportunity,” especially for a sixth-round pick like him. He sounds pumped, too: “I’m obviously very excited and ready to make the most of it.” You gotta respect that mindset. The Eagles are apparently dealing with a bunch of injury issues beyond Hurts, so it’s not like McKee is walking into an easy situation. It’s far from ideal for a backup to come in and try to be a savior with so many other guys banged up. But hey, it’s his shot, right? This is his moment to show the Eagles, and the entire dang league, exactly what he can do. You better believe everyone’s gonna be watching this Sunday to see if he can make that “strong impression” he’s looking for.
And speaking of tough breaks, man, our Seahawks just couldn’t get it done against the Broncos tonight, falling 17-14. That one stings. We gotta see the guys bounce back fast from that kind of road loss. Let’s get it right next week!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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