For two years, the Philadelphia Eagles have been keeping a close eye on Tanner McKee in practice, and their anticipation reached a thrilling peak during their decisive 41-7 victory over the Dallas Cowboys. Left tackle Jordan Mailata couldn’t contain his excitement, dubbing McKee the “Mormon Missile” after his impressive NFL debut.
With starting quarterback Jalen Hurts sidelined due to a concussion and backup Kenny Pickett dealing with a rib injury that worsened during the game, McKee stepped into the spotlight. The second-year quarterback, a sixth-round pick from Stanford, made his first-ever regular-season appearance and played a crucial role in securing a division-clinching win.
“This is surreal,” expressed McKee, reflecting on his journey from college football to the NFL. “Winning a game, throwing a touchdown pass with these guys, it’s just awesome.”
Despite being drafted last year and serving as the Eagles’ third-string quarterback, McKee had yet to see action until this game. Notably, he made history by becoming the first player in the NFL to throw for multiple touchdown passes with fewer than five attempts in their debut.
In a memorable highlight, McKee connected with A.J. Brown for a 20-yard touchdown. Brown exuberantly celebrated by tossing the football into the stands, unaware it was McKee’s first touchdown pass. The team quickly worked to retrieve the ball, eventually trading it back to McKee thanks to the generosity of a fan.
“I’m really grateful to A.J. and everyone involved in getting that ball back,” McKee said, clearly moved by the support. Meanwhile, Pickett commended McKee’s diligence and teamwork, calling it a special day for the entire locker room.
While McKee had a solid outing with three completions on four attempts for 54 yards and two touchdowns, he credits his rigorous preparation and the opportunities he received in practice as the keys to his success. His teammates had always known he could deliver and were excited to see him finally take center stage.
This story is a testament to resilience and teamwork in the face of adversity, showcasing how preparation and perseverance can lead to extraordinary outcomes. As the Eagles continue their season, McKee’s performance reminds fans and players alike of the strength found within their ranks.
In summary, Tanner McKee’s debut not only marked a personal achievement but also highlighted the supportive culture within the Eagles organization, proving that hard work does pay off when the opportunity arises.