What happened: McKee stepped to the podium Thursday after taking over Philadelphia's starting quarterback job against Carolina on a depth chart that also includes Payton and Milton. The passer connected with DeVonta Smith for a 19-yard touchdown during Sunday's 25-14 loss to the Panthers.

Why it matters: With Hurts sidelined by a leg blood clot and expected to miss the remainder of the 2026 season, Philadelphia's offense must quickly build chemistry around its new leader. Smith noted that their connection should sharpen with McKee getting starter practice reps moving forward, while the unit looks to clean up blitz protection issues that occurred with a fourth-string center starting.

What to watch: Philadelphia now turns its preparation toward a primetime divisional matchup against the Cowboys with Saquon Barkley back on the practice field.