Tanner McKee’s Trade Stock: Which Teams Should Target the Eagles’ QB?

The NFL is a quarterback-driven league, and teams are always searching for the next franchise signal-caller. While the top of the draft is often the focus, sometimes the best value can be found in unexpected places. Enter Tanner McKee, the Philadelphia Eagles’ intriguing young quarterback. After a few impressive performances, McKee’s trade stock is soaring, leaving many to wonder which teams should be vying for his services. In Week 17 of the 2024 season, McKee made history, becoming the first player since 1936 to throw multiple touchdown passes in his NFL debut while attempting five or fewer passes. This remarkable feat has teams taking notice.

McKee’s Impressive Showing

Tanner McKee, a sixth-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, wasn’t expected to make waves so early in his career. However, injuries and opportunities have a way of changing things. In limited action, McKee has showcased a blend of arm talent, poise, and accuracy that has NFL scouts and analysts buzzing.

In his first start against the New York Giants in Week 18, McKee completed 27 of 41 passes for 269 yards and two touchdowns. He demonstrated a calm presence in the pocket, even when playing behind a backup offensive line. His performance was not a fluke, as he had previously thrown two touchdowns on just four attempts in Week 17. These performances have put him in the record books, as he is the first Eagles quarterback to throw four touchdowns in his first two career games. His passer rating in those two games is a staggering 117.2, a figure higher than many of the league’s top quarterbacks this season.

Why McKee is a Hot Commodity

Several factors contribute to McKee’s rising trade value:

Arm Talent: McKee possesses excellent natural arm strength, capable of generating easy velocity and pushing the ball outside the numbers. He can make throws that many quarterbacks simply can’t.
Pocket Presence: Despite his limited experience, McKee has shown a remarkable ability to stay composed in the pocket, navigate pressure, and deliver accurate throws.
Accuracy: While there are areas for improvement, McKee has demonstrated impressive accuracy, especially in the short and intermediate ranges.
Cost-Effective: With two years remaining on his rookie contract and a salary under $3 million, McKee is an incredibly affordable option for teams seeking a quarterback with upside.
Small Sample Size, Big Impact: McKee’s limited playing time has been incredibly impactful, making teams wonder what he could do with more opportunities.

Teams That Should Target McKee

Several teams could benefit from acquiring Tanner McKee. Here are a few that stand out:

Cleveland Browns: The Browns are in a tough spot with Deshaun Watson’s massive contract and inconsistent performance. McKee could provide competition and a potential long-term solution without breaking the bank. The Browns are listed as a team that needs a quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Las Vegas Raiders: The Raiders have been searching for a franchise quarterback for years. McKee’s potential and affordability make him an attractive option to develop. The Raiders are also listed as a team that needs a quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft.
New York Giants: The Giants are another team in desperate need of a quarterback. They are also listed as a team that needs a quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft. With an aging roster, McKee could be a cost-effective option to rebuild around.
Indianapolis Colts: The Colts are a team that could be looking for a long-term solution at quarterback. McKee could be a good fit for their system.
New York Jets: The Jets could be looking for a new quarterback if they decide to move on from Aaron Rodgers. McKee could be a good option for them.

The Eagles’ Perspective

The Eagles have a solid quarterback situation with Jalen Hurts as their starter. However, they also have Kenny Pickett as a capable backup. With McKee’s value rising, the Eagles might consider trading him to acquire draft capital or address other needs. Some analysts believe the Eagles may shop Pickett instead, keeping McKee as a cheaper backup option. The Eagles’ front office has a history of making shrewd moves, and trading McKee could be another example of their strategic thinking.

Conclusion

Tanner McKee’s emergence as a legitimate NFL quarterback has been one of the most surprising storylines of the 2024 season. His combination of arm talent, poise, and affordability makes him a highly sought-after trade target. Several teams should be lining up to acquire his services, and it will be fascinating to see where he lands. As the offseason approaches, expect McKee’s name to be at the center of many trade discussions.

What do you think? Which team would be the best fit for Tanner McKee? Share your thoughts in the comments below!