Andy Dalton is refusing to concede Eagles backup job to Tanner McKee

The Philadelphia Eagles entered training camp with what many assumed would be a straightforward competition for the backup quarterback job. There were also theories about one of the parties that was involved.

Tanner McKee was seen as the organization's best trade piece outside of A.J. Brown . Also among the most popular discussions were the reports stating the Eagles wanted a second-round pick for his services.

Obviously, there hasn't been any movement, and McKee finds himself lodged in a battle with Andy Dalton. Five practices into camp, this all remains intriguing. That has forced the obvious questions. Where do things stand as we settle into August? Who has the upper hand? Both are certainly interesting topics of conversation.

Andy Dalton and Tanner McKee are embracing the competition

Veteran Andy Dalton has consistently played well throughout the opening week of training camp, showing the arm strength, timing and command that have kept him in the NFL for nearly two decades. Rather than serving strictly as a veteran presence, Dalton has positioned himself as a legitimate contender for the No. 2 role behind Jalen Hurts.

Both quarterbacks addressed the competition following the Eagles' second padded practice . Neither sounded interested in anything beyond earning the job. McKee acknowledged that competing for a roster spot has become part of life in the NFL.

"It's the NFL. Every year that I've been here, we've had four quarterbacks. You gotta compete for a job, that's nothing new. As an athlete, you have to love competition. You have to love to compete."

Dalton echoed that mindset. He embraced the challenge while continuing to let his play speak for itself. Full quotes from both are below.

Eagles backup QB Tanner McKee on the Eagles trading for veteran Andy Dalton, and their competition for the No. 2 job behind Jalen Hurts. pic.twitter.com/xYD7OvOxkw

— Ralph Vacchiano (@RalphVacchiano) August 4, 2026 Andy Dalton on the competition for QB2 pic.twitter.com/AN7o4fYVWH

— PHLY Eagles (@PHLY_Eagles) August 4, 2026 The competition has become increasingly intriguing because Dalton continues backing up his experience with production on the practice field. He has delivered several impressive throws during team periods, including a touchdown to Hollywood Brown, a strike to Johnny Wilson over the middle and another highlight-reel touchdown pass to Darius Cooper during Tuesday's goal-line work.

McKee has shown flashes of his own, but Dalton has consistently made the conversation more difficult than many anticipated entering camp. There's still plenty of football remaining before the Eagles settle on a backup quarterback.

Joint practices and preseason games carry far more weight than training camp sessions. Still, one thing has become increasingly clear through five practices. This competition is real, and Andy Dalton has ensured it won't be decided by expectations set before camp began.

This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Andy Dalton is refusing to concede Eagles backup job to Tanner McKee

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