The Philadelphia Eagles are facing a busy offseason filled with potential trades, and their backup quarterback, Tanner McKee, is attracting considerable attention from other NFL teams. Despite limited playing experience, McKee‘s performances have caught the eye of franchises like the New York Jets, who may explore trade options to acquire him as they seek quarterback competition.
According to Dan Parr of NFL.com, who reported on draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah’s recent mock draft, the Jets could actively pursue veteran backup quarterbacks including McKee. Jeremiah advised teams to consider trading for quarterbacks like the Eagles’ Tanner McKee and the Texans’ Davis Mills as low-risk moves involving mid-round draft picks.
“Those are a couple guys I’d be curious about taking a flyer on for a year if you can trade a mid-round pick,”
Jeremiah said.
“I don’t think I would lean in the direction of the draft for their quarterback this year. I think they will be all in for that next year.”
Evaluating McKee’s On-Field Performance and Trade Value
Tanner McKee has limited game experience, having started only twice in his NFL career, but his on-field productivity has been notable. He completed 61.4% of his passes, totaling 597 yards, with five touchdowns and one interception. His most impressive outing came in the 2024 season opener against the New York Giants, where he threw for two touchdowns without any interceptions, helping the Eagles secure a victory.
However, McKee’s final start in Week 18 against the Washington Commanders was less impactful. He completed just over half of his passes (52.5%) for 241 yards, throwing a touchdown alongside an interception, in a losing effort. While this performance did not help his standing, it hasn’t significantly diminished the interest teams have in him.
Trade Discussions and Potential Compensation for the Eagles
Several NFL teams are expected to inquire about McKee during the offseason, either seeking a reliable backup or a quarterback capable of competing for a starting role. The Philadelphia Eagles, led by general manager Howie Roseman, will likely seek fair compensation, with expectations that a trade involving McKee would bring back a 2026 third-round pick at best. The Eagles may also consider packaging picks to improve the return, but anything less than a mid-round pick deal should be declined.
The New York Jets’ high selections in Days 2 and 3 of the upcoming draft could serve as valuable trade assets, given their struggles last season. Roseman may engage in talks with the Jets to maximize value for McKee, using the assets gained to draft a young quarterback to develop as a potential long-term replacement.
Implications for the Eagles and Offseason Strategy
The potential trade of Tanner McKee illustrates the balancing act the Eagles face in managing depth at the quarterback position while attempting to improve their roster. Moving McKee could create roster space and additional draft capital, allowing the team to pursue promising quarterback talent. For the Jets and similar teams, acquiring McKee represents a chance to strengthen quarterback options without committing to a draft pick this year.
As discussions continue, McKee’s future may hinge on how the Eagles value his contributions versus the draft capital they can acquire, with the broader goal of maintaining competitive depth while planning for the next NFL season.
