Overview
- Through five training-camp practices, veteran Andy Dalton has delivered multiple standout throws and touchdown plays that have tightened the contest for the backup role.
- Incumbent Tanner McKee has publicly embraced the challenge and is using Dalton’s experience to learn from sideline reps and in-meeting work.
- Coaches are rotating second- and third-unit reps without a fixed designation so neither quarterback knows in advance when they will take snaps.
- The team intends to rely on joint practices and preseason games to make the final decision, with both players expected to have meaningful evaluation chances in those settings.
- The outcome will shape in-season contingency planning behind Jalen Hurts and could affect roster moves or McKee’s trade value depending on preseason performance.