Eagles Reportedly Offer QB Tanner McKee to Steelers in Trade

The deal could help Pittsburgh address their quarterback question.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

According to a recent ESPN mock trade, the Philadelphia Eagles are reportedly offering quarterback Tanner McKee to the Pittsburgh Steelers in exchange for the Steelers' 2026 third-round pick and a conditional 2027 third-round pick. The Steelers have had quarterback issues in recent years, and the trade could help them address that need as they look to bring in stability at the position under new head coach Mike McCarthy.

Why it matters

The Steelers have been searching for a long-term solution at quarterback, and acquiring the 25-year-old McKee could be an opportunity for them to develop a young talent. The Eagles, meanwhile, have a surplus of quarterback depth and may be willing to part with McKee for the right price as they look to stockpile draft capital.

The details

In the ESPN mock trade, analyst Bill Barnwell noted that McKee had an impressive 2025 preseason, going 20-of-25 for 252 yards and two touchdowns. While he has limited regular season experience, the 6-foot-6 quarterback has shown promise in mop-up duty and spot starts over the past two years. The Steelers may view McKee as a potential long-term answer at the position, especially with an extra third-round pick to use in the deal.

  • The trade proposal was included in a recent ESPN mock draft published on February 16, 2026.

The players

Tanner McKee

A 25-year-old quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles who has shown promise in limited NFL action so far.

Howie Roseman

The general manager of the Philadelphia Eagles, known for his active approach to making trades.

Mike McCarthy

The new head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who is looking to bring stability to the team's quarterback position.

Bill Barnwell

An ESPN analyst who proposed the trade between the Eagles and Steelers in a recent mock draft.

Nick Herbig

An edge rusher for the Pittsburgh Steelers who could potentially be included in the trade package.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“McKee was excellent in the 2025 preseason, going 20-of-25 for 252 yards and two scores. In mop-up duty and two Week 18 starts playing with Philly's backups over the past two years, he has posted a 45.3 Total QBR, putting McKee just ahead of Rodgers' 44.5.”

— Bill Barnwell, ESPN Analyst (ESPN)

“For a team that is never in position to draft a quarterback in the top 10, taking a shot on someone like McKee is an alternative the Steelers need to consider. Pittsburgh also has an extra third-round pick as a result of the George Pickens trade, and though that shouldn't cause teams to discount their own picks, it might make taking a swing on McKee easier to stomach.”

— Bill Barnwell, ESPN Analyst (ESPN)

What’s next

The Steelers will need to evaluate whether Tanner McKee is the right quarterback to address their needs, and the two teams will have to agree on the final terms of the trade, including whether the Steelers would need to include an additional asset like edge rusher Nick Herbig.

The takeaway

This proposed trade highlights the Eagles' willingness to explore deals for their backup quarterback depth, while the Steelers are actively seeking solutions to their long-standing quarterback issues. If the two teams can reach an agreement, the trade could provide both franchises with the opportunity to improve their rosters and address key needs.