Since 2020, the Philadelphia Eagles have steadily built a solid and versatile quarterback room. Their efforts began to take shape when Jalen Hurts rose through the ranks to claim the starting role. Since then, the team has prioritized surrounding him with capable backups, including experienced names like Gardner Minshew and Marcus Mariota. In 2023, Kenny Pickett filled that role and occasionally showed flashes of potential, enough to now be in contention for a starting job with the Cleveland Browns.
Heading into the 2025 NFL season, the Eagles once again find themselves with intriguing depth behind Hurts. This year’s quarterback room is expected to include Dorian Thompson-Robinson (DTR), Tanner McKee, and 2025 draft pick Kyle McCord. DTR brings game experience but struggled with turnovers, as shown by his 1:10 touchdown-to-interception ratio. McKee, who had a limited but promising stint with 89 snaps in 2023, remains a developmental prospect. McCord adds youth and upside but lacks NFL experience.
While the current roster appears functional, the Eagles’ front office is always exploring ways to gain an edge, and adding another quarterback into the mix could spark beneficial competition—especially someone with a skillset more aligned to Hurts’. That’s where Bryce Perkins enters the conversation.
Perkins, who recently lit up the United Football League (UFL) while leading the Michigan Panthers, brings both momentum and proven talent to the table. The former Virginia standout earned UFL MVP, Offensive Player of the Year, and All-UFL honors despite missing three games with an ankle injury. His dynamic dual-threat playstyle mirrors that of Hurts more than any quarterback currently on Philadelphia’s depth chart.
After entering the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2020, Perkins spent time with the Los Angeles Rams. Though his NFL game appearances were limited, he earned a Super Bowl ring and developed under Sean McVay’s system, giving him exposure to pro-level playbooks. He returned to football in 2024 with the Panthers, quickly asserting himself as the UFL’s most electrifying quarterback. Under the guidance of former NFL coach Mike Nolan, Perkins thrived, demonstrating his ability to extend plays, break tackles, and deliver deep throws under pressure.
In contrast to McKee and DTR, Perkins offers a rare combination of athleticism and toughness, with his experience and production standing out. He arguably provides more insurance for Hurts, especially considering Hurts’ mobile style makes him more susceptible to injury.
Philadelphia is eyeing another deep postseason run, and smart roster moves could be the difference-maker. Inviting Perkins for a workout and evaluating his fit could be a low-risk, high-upside decision. With McKee still on a rookie deal, the Eagles would also retain flexibility to use him in a potential trade if quarterback injuries emerge across the league. Perkins, meanwhile, could become the most suitable backup option the team has had to mirror Hurts’ dynamic play.
