The NFL trade market is buzzing with the potential move of Eagles backup quarterback Tanner McKee. With a weak pool of quarterback talent in free agency and the draft, teams are eyeing young backups with starting potential, and McKee fits the bill.
But here's where it gets controversial: despite multiple inquiries from other NFL franchises, the Eagles are reluctant to let McKee go. A source close to the situation, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed to NJ.com that the Eagles have shown little interest in trading McKee unless they receive an offer that's simply too good to refuse.
McKee, entering the final year of his rookie contract, is highly regarded by the Eagles as one of the league's top backup quarterbacks. Any team looking to acquire him would likely need to offer a Day-2 draft pick as a starting point for negotiations.
And this is the part most people miss: even with such a high asking price, there's no guarantee the Eagles will budge. An NFC team made a "strong offer" for McKee last season, but it wasn't enough to convince Philadelphia to part ways with their prized backup.
Among the teams expressing interest in McKee is the New York Jets, as first reported by draft analyst Tony Pauline. The Jets are just one of several teams in need of a quarterback upgrade, with the Dolphins, Cardinals, Vikings, Steelers, and Browns also potentially in the mix.
McKee has shown starting potential in his two NFL starts, displaying an above-average arm, solid timing, and accuracy. He completed 54 of 88 passes for 597 yards and five touchdowns with just one interception in those starts.
If the Eagles do decide to trade McKee, they have options for his replacement. They could re-sign Sam Howell as their top backup, target another established veteran in free agency, or draft a rookie to fill the void.
For now, it seems the Eagles are content to keep McKee unless an irresistible offer comes their way. The question remains: will any team be able to convince Philadelphia to let go of their prized backup? Only time will tell.
