Eagles QB Change: Joe Milton to Start

Philadelphia Eagles fans will see a new face under center on Sunday when the team plays the New York Giants. The Eagles have decided to bench starting quarterback Tanner McKee. He will be replaced by Joe Milton, who will make his first career NFL start.

Coach Nick Sirianni confirmed the change on Wednesday. Just two hours before the news broke, he praised Milton’s work ethic in practice. "I think he’s worked really hard in practice," Sirianni told reporters. He noted that Milton has spent a lot of time with quarterbacks coach Parks Frazier to learn the system.

Milton, 26, arrived in Philadelphia only 18 days ago. The Eagles signed him off the Dallas Cowboys practice squad. He was a sixth round pick by the New England Patriots in 2024 out of the University of Tennessee. In two seasons, he has appeared in just five NFL games. In those relief appearances, he completed 37 of 53 passes for 424 yards. He threw two touchdowns and two interceptions.

The move comes after the Eagles dropped to a 2-6 record. The team entered the season with high goals but has struggled with injuries and offensive issues. The offensive line has had trouble protecting the pocket, prompting the staff to look for more mobility at quarterback. Milton offers more movement than McKee, which the coaching staff hopes will keep plays alive longer.

Sirianni had previously called McKee "our guy" on Monday. That statement stands in sharp contrast to the decision made 48 hours later. The Eagles had already elevated Milton to backup status upon his arrival, pushing rookie Cole Payton down the depth chart. The change reflects a team seeking a new spark in an offense that has underperformed since the start of the season.