The Philadelphia Eagles’ quarterback room is buzzing with intrigue as training camp looms, with the battle for the third-string spot behind Jalen Hurts and backup Tanner McKee heating up. Two new faces, Dorian Thompson-Robinson and rookie Kyle McCord, are vying for the role, and early signs point to a breakout performance from the Eagles’ sixth-round draft pick that could leave the team questioning a recent trade acquisition.
A Rookie Rising: Kyle McCord’s Impressive Start
Kyle McCord, selected in the 2025 NFL Draft, has quickly turned heads during offseason workouts. According to Philly Voice’s Jimmy Kempski, McCord’s stock is soaring after a standout spring. “You can usually tell pretty quickly if a young quarterback just isn’t going to make it,” Kempski noted, referencing past Eagles prospects like Clayton Thorson and Carson Strong, who faltered early. “McCord is not one of those guys. He made several impressive throws over the middle of the field throughout the spring and seems to carry himself with some swagger and confidence.”
McCord’s journey to this point has been remarkable. After a solid but unspectacular 2023 season at Ohio State, he transferred to Syracuse—home of Eagles legend Donovan McNabb—and erupted onto the national stage. Leading the nation with 4,779 passing yards and 367.6 yards per game, McCord finished tenth in Heisman Trophy voting and cemented his NFL potential. His chemistry with Eagles quarterbacks coach Scot Loeffler, built over a decade-long relationship, has only amplified his early success in Philadelphia. McCord’s ability to make every throw with poise and precision has coaches and teammates buzzing about his potential to lock down the QB3 role.
The Struggling Trade Acquisition: Dorian Thompson-Robinson
On the other side of the battle stands Dorian Thompson-Robinson, acquired as part of the Kenny Pickett trade with the Cleveland Browns. While Thompson-Robinson brings tantalizing mobility that mirrors Jalen Hurts’ dynamic style, his passing woes raise red flags. In 15 NFL games over two seasons, including five starts, he’s completed just 52.6% of his passes, tossing one touchdown against a staggering 10 interceptions. His lone win as a starter does little to offset concerns about his accuracy and decision-making.
The Eagles remain hopeful that Thompson-Robinson’s athleticism can translate into a Hurts-like spark in their offense, but his struggles as a passer have put him on the back foot in this competition. With McCord shining, the trade that brought Thompson-Robinson to Philadelphia is starting to look like a questionable move.
Why McCord Has the Edge
The Eagles’ decision to draft McCord in the sixth round signaled their belief in his potential, and his performance at OTAs and minicamp has only reinforced that confidence. Teams rarely draft quarterbacks with the intent to cut them, and McCord’s polished play suggests he’s here to stay. His ability to command the huddle, deliver throws with confidence, and leverage his prior connection with Coach Loeffler gives him a clear advantage.
This competition may stretch into the final days of training camp, but McCord’s trajectory points to him securing the third-string role. If he continues to outshine Thompson-Robinson, the Eagles may face tough questions about the value of their trade for the struggling veteran. For now, McCord’s swagger, skill, and skyrocketing stock make him the rookie to watch—and a potential steal of the 2025 draft.