The Philadelphia Eagles made a notable acquisition this offseason by trading for a backup quarterback. The former Pittsburgh Steelers’ first-round draft pick and former starter is turning heads among NFL beat writers during OTAs. This impressive performance could be providing some added motivation for Eagles’ starting quarterback Jalen Hurts ahead of training camp.
Jalen Hurts is the Philadelphia Eagles QB1
Hurts’ starting position isn’t in jeopardy; he was a strong contender for the NFL MVP in the 2022 season and even surpassed his passing yardage from that year in the 2023 season. However, he also had nine more interceptions in 2023 compared to 2022.
The Eagles improved at QB2
The Eagles bolstered their backup quarterback position this offseason by allowing Marcus Mariota to depart in free agency, where he signed with the Washington Commanders. In his place, they acquired former Steelers starting quarterback Kenny Pickett. Pickett, seeking a fresh start after the Steelers signed veteran quarterback Russell Wilson in March, was dissatisfied with how the situation was handled in Pittsburgh, which essentially guaranteed Wilson the QB1 spot come September. While Pickett faces slim chances of starting with the Eagles, he remains committed to giving his all and seizing any opportunity that arises.
Kenny Pickett is impressing in OTAs
According to Ed Kracz of Eagles Today, in his “overreactions” column, Pickett outperformed Hurts during OTA drills this week.
“The backup quarterback looked sharp, sharper than Jalen Hurts, to be honest. Hurts was on the money with his first two seven-on-seven throws, connecting with A.J. Brown on a quick inside slant and then delivering a nice sideline throw about 15 yards downfield. However, Pickett consistently hit his marks. If something were to happen to Hurts, the Eagles could win games with him.”
While Pickett isn’t expected to secure the QB1 position in training camp, the Eagles fanbase can take comfort in knowing they have one of the stronger backup quarterback situations in the league for the upcoming season.