Eagles GM Howie Roseman Confident in Three-QB Roster

Roseman says adding veteran Andy Dalton gives the Eagles three QBs who can play if needed.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 1:07pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a football quarterback in motion, with the player's form fractured and abstracted into overlapping angular shapes in shades of blue, green, and orange.The Eagles' decision to add veteran QB Andy Dalton reflects their desire for a deep, capable quarterback room behind starter Jalen Hurts.Philadelphia Today

Philadelphia Eagles General Manager Howie Roseman explained the team's decision to trade for veteran quarterback Andy Dalton, saying it gives them three quarterbacks he's confident can play if starter Jalen Hurts goes down. Roseman praised Dalton's experience and decision-making ability, noting the low cost of the trade and Dalton's affordable salary cap hit.

Why it matters

The Eagles have been searching for a reliable backup quarterback behind Hurts, and Roseman believes Dalton and 2023 sixth-round pick Tanner McKee provide that insurance. Having three capable QBs on the roster could be crucial if Hurts misses any time due to injury.

The details

The Eagles acquired Dalton from the Carolina Panthers in exchange for a 2027 seventh-round draft pick. Dalton, who is entering his 16th NFL season, will cost the Eagles just $1.5 million against the salary cap this year. Roseman praised Dalton's decision-making and ability to 'still throw it,' saying the team has liked him for a long time.

  • The Eagles made the trade for Dalton on March 30, 2026.

The players

Howie Roseman

The General Manager of the Philadelphia Eagles, responsible for the team's roster decisions and personnel moves.

Andy Dalton

A 38-year-old veteran quarterback who the Eagles acquired from the Carolina Panthers to serve as a backup and insurance policy behind starter Jalen Hurts.

Jalen Hurts

The starting quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles, who Roseman wants to have capable backups behind in case of injury.

Tanner McKee

The Eagles' 2023 sixth-round draft pick, who served as the backup quarterback behind Hurts last season.

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What they’re saying

“The way I think about these three quarterbacks when I go to bed at night, I know we have three quarterbacks who can play. I sleep better. It's just how I roll.”

— Howie Roseman, General Manager, Philadelphia Eagles

“I thought it was a good opportunity for us to bring in Andy — a guy that we've known for a long time, a guy that can add a lot on and off the field. He can still throw it. He can still really make quick decisions. We've liked him for a long time, watched him for a long time.”

— Howie Roseman, General Manager, Philadelphia Eagles

What’s next

The Eagles will look to integrate Dalton into their quarterback room and have him ready to step in if needed behind Hurts during the 2026 NFL season.

The takeaway

Roseman's comments highlight the importance the Eagles place on having a strong quarterback depth chart, even behind an entrenched starter like Hurts. The low-cost addition of Dalton gives the team insurance and flexibility at the game's most important position.