Andy Dalton Signs With NFC Contender 1 Day After Rejecting Eagles Offer
Veteran QB Andy Dalton spurned a chance to return to the Eagles, and now he's joining a possible NFC playoff contender.
The Atlanta Falcons have faced quarterback troubles this season, swapping out starting QBs as injuries struck. Initially, Tua Tagovailoa was slated to be the starter, but injuries forced Cooper Rush into a few starts. Rush's performance was lackluster, paving the way for Jack Strand, who also failed to make an impact. Finally, Michael Penix Jr. recovered from injury and stepped up, solidifying the Falcons' QB lineup.
However, the team isn't resting on its laurels and has bolstered its backup QB options. On Monday, former Philadelphia Eagles QB Andy Dalton agreed to a contract with Atlanta, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. Meanwhile, the Falcons released Rush, who played poorly with a 42.5 passer rating. The move comes just days after Dalton was cut by his former team, despite being offered a return.
Pro Bowler Dalton, known for his 13-season NFL career, including 39,792 passing yards and 254 touchdowns, chose Atlanta over his former employer. This decision is particularly significant now that Jalen Hurts is out for the season due to blood clots, leaving Tanner McKee, Cole Payton, and Joe Milton to fill in.
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