Eagles Backup QB Tanner McKee Ruled Out Week 1 vs Cowboys

The Philadelphia Eagles will be without backup quarterback Tanner McKee for their Thursday night season opener against the Dallas Cowboys due to a right thumb injury that does not require surgery but will sideline him for at least the first week. Sam Howell, recently acquired from the Minnesota Vikings in a trade involving late-round draft picks, will serve as the backup to starting quarterback Jalen Hurts, with rookie Kyle McCord likely activated as the third quarterback. Despite McKee's absence, the Eagles are otherwise healthy, with Pro Bowl left guard Landon Dickerson, safety Andrew Mukuba, linebacker Josh Uche, and defensive tackle Jalen Carter all cleared to play after recovering from injuries sustained during training camp. Howell has been praised by the coaching staff for his quick adaptation to the Eagles’ offense despite joining the team late in the preseason. The Eagles' full starting offensive line is set to be intact for the opener, and the team appears well-prepared to face the Cowboys despite the quarterback change.