Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni has backed Tanner McKee to step up after Jalen Hurts suffered a serious health setback. Hurts will miss the remainder of the 2026 NFL season due to blood clots in both lungs.
McKee now faces the challenge of leading Philadelphia’s offence. Sirianni believes the back-up quarterback can handle the responsibility.
“I have the utmost confidence in Tanner [McKee],” Sirianni said.
However, the Eagles coach knows how much the team will miss Hurts. He has worked alongside the starting quarterback for six years.
“I can just say to you I haven’t been without Jalen for an extended period of time,” Sirianni added.
“But you know, I miss him, right? I miss him, and I know that will be the case.”
McKee handed chance to prove himself
The Philadelphia Eagles must now prepare for life without one of their key offensive players. McKee has an opportunity to prove himself in the starting role.
Hurts brings a dual threat to Philadelphia’s offence. He can make plays through the air and create opportunities with his running ability.
McKee will need to adapt his approach as he takes on a bigger role. He must also help the Eagles maintain their offensive rhythm throughout the remaining games.
Sirianni’s public support should give the 26-year-old confidence. However, replacing Hurts presents a major challenge because of his leadership and ability to deliver under pressure.
Eagles await positive news on Hurts
Philadelphia’s immediate concern remains Hurts’ recovery after further medical examinations revealed deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary emboli in both lungs.
The diagnosis followed an initial discovery of a superficial blood clot in his left calf ahead of the Eagles’ Week Five defeat to the Jacksonville Jaguars in London.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported that Hurts had been in hospital until 4am before the game, which he played despite the initial diagnosis.
The Eagles and Hurts’ agent, Nicole Lynn, confirmed that he was clinically stable and would receive treatment with blood thinners.
They also said a full recovery was expected, with no long-term effects anticipated.
Hurts will be unable to participate in contact activities while undergoing treatment, leaving McKee to take centre stage as Philadelphia attempts to navigate the remainder of the campaign without its starting quarterback.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: NFL news: San Francisco 49ers vs Washington Commanders preview – Brock Purdy to make history
