The Eagles quarterback lineup will a be a topic of debate well into the start of the 2016 regular season, and perhaps longer depending on the stability on whoever the week one starter is. At this point, it could be anyone, with the exception of McLeod Bethel-Thompson, the presumptive 4th string, if a 4th QB is carried at all. Here is a projected lineup.
Philadelphia Eagles Projected Quarterback Depth Chart
Starter: Chase Daniel
This is a close match-up between Sam Bradford and Daniel, as they’re both not anything really special at this point. If Bradford can show the accuracy that got him drafted #1 overall, he will no doubt be the starter this season, but it seems his accuracy has gone down significantly. Also, the trade demands and refusal to come to training camp simply because there is competition there, with the drafting of Wentz hurt his chances. That is something management and coaching will not forget. If it comes down to a tie, which it seems it will, the tie will go to Daniel, because he’s more familiar with the offense, and the fact that he didn’t throw a fit with competition around. Plus, he has good decision making skills, and rarely turns the football over, which is something Bradford struggled with last season. The Eagles need a game manager for now, and they’ve got one with Daniel.
Backup: Sam Bradford
As much as Sam will hate this, It’s easy to believe he will fill this role week one, and possibly longer. It seems as though he believes he will lose the competition to Chase Daniel, which he likely will. He lacks the leadership to lead the team and to help groom Wentz to be his replacement, while Daniel seems to have no problem with it. It’s safe to think both him and Daniel have a similar skill set, but Pederson’s experience with Daniel is what will condemn Bradford to be backup.
3rd String: Carson Wentz
Carson Wentz is without a doubt the man of the future for the Eagles. If all goes well, there won’t be much meaningful playing time this year if any at all, but it’s safe to expect some ‘garbage time’ action. The third string spot will virtually ensure he doesn’t need to be thrust into the lineup, barring terrible disaster involving bad play, or injury. This will give him a great chance to learn without the pressure of the starting role.
4th String: McLeod Bethel-Thompson
Not much needs to be said. He may or may not even make the team.
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