Eagles Fall to Patriots in Preseason Clash Marked by Injuries and Unsettled QB Battle
The Philadelphia Eagles lost to the New England Patriots 24-21 in a preseason game. The Eagles' running backs had a strong performance, but the undecided QB2 role remained unclear after performances from both Andy Dalton and Tanner McKee. The game…
Philadelphia, PA, August 22, 2026 —
The Philadelphia Eagles concluded their preseason campaign with a narrow 24-21 defeat against the New England Patriots. The game, played in a preseason context, highlighted both promising aspects and lingering questions for the Eagles as they head into the regular season.
Despite the loss, the Eagles’ ground game demonstrated effectiveness. Running backs displayed a strong performance throughout the matchup, showcasing potential for the team’s offensive strategy. However, the critical undecided role of the second-string quarterback, QB2, remains a key area of uncertainty. Both veteran Andy Dalton and second-year player Tanner McKee saw action, with neither performance definitively settling the competition for the backup position.
A somber note struck early in the game with a serious injury sustained by running back Ja’Quinden Jackson. The injury occurred on the opening kickoff, casting a shadow over the team’s otherwise competitive performance. The severity of Jackson’s injury and its potential impact on the roster moving forward were not detailed.
The preseason finale provided a final opportunity for coaches to evaluate players in game situations, particularly in positions such as QB2, where depth and readiness are crucial. The outcome against the Patriots, while not reflective of regular season stakes, offers a final data point in the team’s preparation. Further evaluations and decisions regarding the roster are expected in the lead-up to the regular season.
Story summarized from the original created by Jeff McLane on www.inquirer.com, see more information here.
