Jalen Hurts’ absence from the Eagles’ lineup hasn't diminished his influence on the quarterback preparing to lead the offense. Tanner McKee credited Hurts with helping his development and said the two remain in frequent contact as Philadelphia prepares to host Dallas on Monday night.
“We have a really good relationship,” McKee said in comments shared by John Clark. “He has been an incredible role model and teammate, example, leader. I can’t say enough good things about him.”
McKee said he texted Hurts the night before and emphasized that the quarterback continues to support him while dealing with his own medical situation.
“Even in this situation, he is in, he is going to continue to be that for me,” McKee said.
That support comes as McKee prepares for his second start of the season. Against Carolina, he completed 26 of 45 passes for 215 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions. He finished with a 77.6 passer rating and averaged 4.8 yards per attempt in Philadelphia’s 25-14 loss.
Tanner McKee says he would not be where he is without Jalen Hurts. Tanner now has a full week of practice and a full week with the game plan going into Monday night.
— John Clark (@JClarkNBCS) October 23, 2026
“I talked to him very frequently. I texted him last night. We have a really good relationship. He has been an… pic.twitter.com/xhMByawIoN
Another week working the game plan and getting starting reps offers an opportunity to improve the timing and consistency of an offense trying to end a four-game losing streak. Hurts’ example remains part of that preparation. McKee’s comments describe a relationship that extends beyond meeting-room instruction, with Philadelphia’s sidelined starter continuing to help the player taking his place.
The Eagles need that preparation to beat Dallas. McKee enters the matchup with another game of experience — and continued guidance from the teammate he credits with helping him reach this opportunity.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Jalen Hurts remains a guiding presence for Eagles QB Tanner McKee