According to multiple reports, the Jets have real interest in Philadelphia Eagles backup Tanner McKee as they explore competition for or a potential replacement for Justin Fields.
Why Tanner McKee Is on the Jets’ Radar
ESPN's Ben Solak says the Jets are prioritizing affordable quarterback options instead of pursuing high-priced veterans like Kyler Murray.
McKee fits that approach perfectly. The 25-year-old is entering the final year of his rookie deal, carrying a cap hit of just $1.9 million, making him an attractive developmental option with starting upside.
“If general manager Darren Mougey gets his way, the Jets will look to bring in a less-expensive signal caller, and two names keep entering the conversation: Tanner McKee and Davis Mills.”
— SleeperJets (@SleeperJets) February 24, 2026
- @TonyPauline pic.twitter.com/24uH3hkoZK
There are also strong connections behind the scenes. Jets offensive coordinator Frank Reich previously worked with the Eagles and spent time at Stanford, McKee’s alma mater.
New York quarterbacks coach Bill Musgrave also coached in the PAC-12 during McKee’s college career. Add in general manager Darren Mougey’s familiarity with Eagles personnel ties, and it’s easy to see why the Jets could believe they have the background information needed to project his development.
McKee’s Limited Action Has Teams Intrigued
McKee’s NFL resume is small but encouraging. Across six career appearances and two starts, he has completed 61.4 percent of his passes for 597 yards with five touchdowns and one interception.
His flashes began in the 2024 preseason, when he went 30-of-45 for 323 yards and four touchdowns, and he later delivered a strong debut performance with a 100.6 passer rating in his first extended regular-season action.
REPORT: The Jets have interest in trading for Tanner McKee. 👀 pic.twitter.com/bosh2G0wtD
— The Eagle Times (@_TheEagleTimes) February 24, 2026
That upside is why evaluators believe McKee could be acquired for a mid-round pick, a reasonable gamble for a Jets team that holds multiple early selections over the next two drafts.
The decision now shifts to Philadelphia, where general manager Howie Roseman values the backup quarterback position behind Jalen Hurts but must weigh that against the possibility of losing McKee in free agency after the 2026 season.
Photo Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
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