Overview
- The coaching staff has not named a No. 2 quarterback and is explicitly rotating Andy Dalton and Tanner McKee in practices, according to Nick Sirianni.
- Reporters have seen Dalton frequently take second‑team reps during media sessions, giving him meaningful opportunities to demonstrate the veteran approach.
- Dalton’s on-field work has been mixed, including an interception and a near-interception along with several accurate throws and a red‑zone connection.
- McKee, who entered the offseason as the presumed backup after developing behind Jalen Hurts, now appears to have a challenged hold on the role.
- The team plans to keep evaluating both quarterbacks through training camp and the preseason, and league observers say McKee could become a trade candidate if Dalton separates himself.