The Philadelphia Eagles(0-2-1) ended their preseason with a 27-13 loss to the Colts at Lincoln Financial Field on Thursday night.
In this game, Eagles backup quarterback Marcus Mariota played one series and led Philadelphia on a short touchdown drive, which a 73-yard kickoff return by Devon Allen set up. The drive ended in a one-yard Trey Sermon touchdown run.
Tanner McKee took over from there and played to the end of the third quarter. The rookie quarterback, who has played well this preseason, completed 19 of 34 passes for 158 yards; McKee led the Eagles on two scoring drives, which ended in field goals.
The sixth-round pick in the 2023 NFL draft is progressing nicely, which has not surprised his head coach Nick Sirianni.
“I wouldn’t say anything surprised me,” Sirianni said. “We drafted him because we liked him, and we liked the accuracy he showed on tape. We liked the decision-making he showed on tape, and he’s continued to show that throughout practice and games.
“He’s put three good games together, and so was excited to work with him. Really pleased with how he was this pre-season.”
McKee says the preseason was a great learning experience.
“Overall, great learning experience and a great opportunity,” he said. “That was one of my goals coming into the preseason was obviously get my feet wet, get out, play with my guys, and get back on the football field. I feel like there were a lot of things to learn, especially, I mean, tonight as well, that I’ll have to go watch and improve on, but just thought it was a great learning experience for me, and I was really thankful for that.”
As he enters the regular season, the 23-year-year-old says he has grown as a player and is very confident.
“I feel super confident,” he said. “Our coaches, players, and my ability with sticking to my routine and going out and playing ball. I feel like I play best when I play loose, and everything is second nature. Not trying to think too much, but going out and playing ball and finding my routine in the NFL.”
At this point, McKee is locked into the third spot at quarterback, and he may have outplayed Mariota. Going forward, it appears Philly could have a decent prospect who could ascend to the backup spot next season and be a trade piece down the line.
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