Quarterback Andy Dalton has concluded his tenure with the Philadelphia Eagles following his release. The transaction ends a short stay in Philadelphia for the veteran signal-caller, who originally arrived via a trade last March.
Dalton, a three-time Pro Bowler best known for his stint with the Cincinnati Bengals from 2011 to 2019, spent the previous three seasons as a backup quarterback for the Carolina Panthers. Despite the Panthers qualifying for the playoff field, Dalton did not appear in their Wild Card game. He was subsequently traded to the Eagles in exchange for a draft pick in the 2027 NFL Draft.
His regular-season debut with Philadelphia came during a Week 3 matchup against his former club, the Chicago Bears. During that contest, Dalton entered the game after starter Jalen Hurts exited due to a concussion. Dalton recorded a single pass attempt, which was intercepted, as the Eagles fell to the Bears 27-7.
Eagles releasing QB Andy Dalton.(via @mikegarafolo) https://t.co/vVNcoDRS09
— NFL (@NFL) October 9, 2026
Tanner McKee Assumes Backup Role Behind Jalen Hurts
With Dalton’s departure, the primary backup quarterback role in Philadelphia now shifts to Tanner McKee. McKee had competed directly with Dalton for the second-string job during the team’s offseason workouts and training camp.
Dalton’s lone appearance in relief of Hurts during Week 3 ended in the team’s first loss of the season under head coach Nick Sirianni. The Eagles subsequently dropped their following game on Sunday against the Los Angeles Rams by a score of 24-20.
Future Options and Roster Status
Despite his release from the active roster, league reports indicate that Dalton could potentially return to the Eagles via their practice squad, provided another franchise does not claim him off waivers first.
The transaction leaves Philadelphia with McKee as the primary reserve behind Hurts as the team prepares for its upcoming schedule. Official league transaction wires confirmed the roster adjustment on October 9, 2026.
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