Eagles Rookie QB Battles to Prove Himself After Tough Preseason Debut, Vows to Be Ready When Called

The Philadelphia Eagles’ quarterback depth chart remains one of the most competitive rooms in the NFL heading into the 2025 season. Jalen Hurts, fresh off a Super Bowl MVP campaign, is locked in as the starter. Behind him, Tanner McKee looks set to serve as the reliable backup, but the No. 3 spot has become a storyline in camp.

While one veteran acquisition has quietly impressed, another young signal-caller is finding the transition to the NFL more challenging than expected. In the preseason opener against the Bengals, he completed just one of five pass attempts for eight yards, also throwing an interception.

The rookie admitted that stepping into the pro game has been an adjustment.

“Every rep matters, but it’s not just about the throws — it’s about how you learn, how you adapt, and how you carry yourself when things don’t go your way,” he said after practice. “I’m here to make sure that when my number is called, no one questions if I’m ready.”

Kyle McCord, the sixth-round pick out of Syracuse, once hailed as one of college football’s most prolific passers. Now, he’s battling Dorian Thompson-Robinson for the final quarterback slot — and so far, the veteran has looked sharper in camp.

McCord’s path is uphill. Thompson-Robinson completed five of six passes for 56 yards in Week 1 and is drawing attention as a possible trade piece if the Eagles decide to keep the younger prospect. But for McCord, the mission is simple: stack good days, absorb everything from the veterans, and prove he belongs on the 53-man roster when September rolls around.