NFL news: Nick Sirianni backs Tanner McKee to step up as Philadelphia Eagles lose Jalen Hurts for season

Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni has backed Tanner McKee to rise to the challenge after Jalen Hurts was ruled out for the remainder of the 2026 NFL season with blood clots in both lungs.

McKee is now expected to lead the Eagles' offence following the serious health setback for Hurts, with Sirianni expressing confidence in the back-up quarterback despite the scale of the challenge facing Philadelphia.

“I have the utmost confidence in Tanner [McKee],” Sirianni said.

However, the Eagles head coach also admitted that Hurts' absence would be difficult, having worked alongside the quarterback for six years.

“I can just say to you I haven't been without Jalen for an extended period of time,” Sirianni added.

“But you know, I miss him, right? I miss him, and I know that will be the case.”

McKee handed chance to prove himself

The Eagles must now adjust to life without one of the most important players in their offence, with McKee facing an opportunity to demonstrate that he can handle the responsibility of leading the team.

Hurts' ability as both a passer and a runner has been central to Philadelphia's offensive approach, meaning McKee may need to adapt to the demands of the starting role as the season progresses.

Sirianni's public backing will provide encouragement for the 26-year-old as he prepares to take on a greater workload.

However, replacing Hurts will be no straightforward task, particularly given the quarterback's importance to the Eagles' leadership and performances in high-pressure situations.

Eagles await positive news on Hurts

Philadelphia's immediate concern remains Hurts' recovery after further medical examinations revealed deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary emboli in both lungs.

The diagnosis followed an initial discovery of a superficial blood clot in his left calf ahead of the Eagles' Week Five defeat to the Jacksonville Jaguars in London.

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported that Hurts had been in hospital until 4am before the game, which he played despite the initial diagnosis.

The Eagles and Hurts' agent, Nicole Lynn, confirmed that he was clinically stable and would receive treatment with blood thinners.

They also said a full recovery was expected, with no long-term effects anticipated.

Hurts will be unable to participate in contact activities while undergoing treatment, leaving McKee to take centre stage as Philadelphia attempts to navigate the remainder of the campaign without its starting quarterback.

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