Eagles name Joe Milton starter for Sunday game against Giants
Philadelphia will bench Tanner McKee and give a sixth-round pick his first career start after a two-week run with a new arm.
By Pedro Tanaka ·
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Joe Milton will start Sunday's game against the New York Giants.
The decision was made on Wednesday, replacing Tanner McKee who has started the last three games. Head coach Nick Sirianni did not announce the change during his Wednesday press conference. Neither quarterback spoke to reporters after practice. ESPN reported the move less than two hours after Sirianni's press conference ended.
Milton, 26, is a former sixth-round pick from the University of Tennessee. He signed with the Eagles on Oct. 16 after playing on the Dallas Cowboys practice squad. He moved from the practice squad to the backup role in one week. He became the starter three weeks after signing. He has played in five regular season games and thrown 53 passes. This will be his first start.
The Eagles are making the change after the offense struggled under McKee. Jalen Hurts is out for the season with blood clots in his lungs. McKee started three games in Hurts' absence. The team hopes Milton provides a new look for the passing game.
Teammates noted Milton's physical traits during Wednesday's practice. Receiver Darius Cooper said Milton throws the ball with a fast, zipping motion. Tight end Dallas Goedert said Milton's arm is a cannon and that his throws are accurate. Goedert said Milton is 6-foot-5 and weighs 236 pounds. Goedert said Milton is elusive in the pocket, a trait that helps against defensive blitzes.
Tight end Eli Stowers said he can feel the ball hit his hands quickly when Milton throws to him. Goedert said the quick arrival of the ball makes it easier for receivers to catch. He said Milton places the ball in good spots for his targets.
Veteran receiver Hollywood Brown said Milton has confidence and excitement for the opportunity. Brown said the team is rallying around the new starter. Goedert said he was surprised to learn Milton had not started a game before. Goedert thought Milton had started six or seven games in his career.
The Eagles will likely play without wideouts DeVonta Smith and Dontayvion Wicks on Sunday. Cooper said he will help Milton by explaining defensive motions. Goedert said he will be a reliable target. Brown said he will focus on creating plays after catching the ball.
Stowers said Milton has been a positive presence in the locker room since arriving on Oct. 16. Stowers said Milton tries to get to know teammates personally. Cooper said he is excited for Milton's opportunity.
The Eagles will face the Giants on Sunday afternoon.
