Eagles Bolster Offense with Andy Dalton Acquisition
The Philadelphia Eagles have reinforced their quarterback roster with the addition of veteran Andy Dalton, coming from the Carolina Panthers. The transaction was finalized in exchange for a seventh-round pick in the 2027 draft, according to sources close to the negotiation.
This move underscores the Eagles’ strategy of maintaining solid depth at the quarterback position. The departure of Sam Howell, who joined the Dallas Cowboys in free agency, opened up a significant space on the team, which will now be filled by Dalton, who arrives to complement Jalen Hurts and Tanner McKee.
Tanner McKee, selected in the sixth round of the 2023 draft, sparked the interest of several teams during the previous offseason. However, the Eagles were reluctant to trade him. McKee played the role of second quarterback last season, and even played a game as a starter, in which he threw for 274 yards, a touchdown, and an interception.
The Eagles hold McKee in high regard, who will likely continue in his role as primary backup if he remains on the team. With only one year remaining on his contract, it remains to be seen if the team will be more willing to consider trade offers on this occasion.
For the Carolina Panthers, this trade represents a savings of $2.1 million in salary cap space for 2026 and $4 million in cash.
The Panthers’ general manager, Dan Morgan, had expressed at the NFL scouting combine his intention to sign a young quarterback to develop behind Bryce Young. Last week, the Panthers secured Kenny Pickett with a one-year contract, which includes $4 million guaranteed and a maximum value of $7.5 million.
Andy Dalton, 38 years old, had a 1-6 record in seven starts during his three seasons with Carolina, including 0-1 in 2025, where he was sacked seven times in a 40-9 loss against the Bills.
In his 15-year career, Dalton has accumulated 39,793 passing yards, 254 touchdowns, and 151 interceptions.
