Kenny Pickett’s debut as the Eagles’ starting quarterback had all the elements of a dream come true. Raised as a diehard Eagles fan, the New Jersey native took the field Sunday with memories of childhood games flooding back. But things took a painful turn, proving dreams sometimes come at a price.

The moment wasn’t lost on Pickett, who reflected emotionally on the experience. “It’s special, man,” he said post-game. “I sit out there on the field; I’m sure there’s a kid dreaming about playing for the Eagles and doing things that we went out there and did today. It’s incredibly special. I had a lot of family here, my dad especially, he’s the one who took me to all the games, and we have great memories together. Watching McNabb and Westbrook back when I was really young. It’s pretty cool.” The statement struck a chord with Eagles fans as the young QB lived out his childhood dream. But we did talk about a price that was payable, right? So, what was it?

Pickett played the game with broken ribs, a revelation confirmed after the Eagles’ dominant 41-7 victory over the Dallas Cowboys. According to ProFootballTalk, the gutsy QB required painkilling injections before the game and at halftime just to compete. Despite the injury, Pickett threw for 143 yards and a touchdown while also rushing for another. Pickett remained on the ground, clutching his midsection after a penalty-causing hit from Osa Odighizuwa just 46 seconds into the second half. However, the story took a turn in the third quarter.

Micah Parsons delivered a punishing hit, ending Pickett’s day. And the Eagles turned to third-stringer Tanner McKee. He stepped up admirably, throwing two touchdowns and maintaining the team’s momentum. But the injury raised questions about the Eagles’ depth moving forward.

Kenny Pickett assured reporters, “I’m good. I’ll be all right.” But the injury coincides with Jalen Hurts’s ongoing recovery from a concussion. After clinching the NFC East, now the Eagles must decide how to handle their QB situation in the final regular-season game.

QB quandary amid NFC East triumph

Jalen Hurts remained sidelined as he continues to recover from a concussion sustained during last week’s game against the Washington Commanders. Hurts was forced out in the first quarter after a hit from linebacker Frankie Luvu caused his head to slam against the ground. Following the incident, Hurts was immediately ruled out for the rest of the game. On Friday, Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni provided an update, stating, “[Hurts] is still in the protocol. It’s going to be tough for him to make it this week.” And now it’s Pickett. However, Tanner McKee’s performance eased immediate concerns.

But the Eagles face a tough decision ahead of the playoffs. Sirianni offered little clarity on Hurts’ progress, emphasizing the importance of Kenny Pickett’s grit in the thrashing victory. Reflecting on McKee’s performance, he said, “You can’t go out there and play that position without the greatness of other people, and they had some greatness from other guys out there.” He also shared the team’s motto amid the uncertainties.

“Always got to do what’s right for the football team to reach our goals of what we need to do. Got a lot to think about. We’ll enjoy this, and then I’ll think about it tonight,” Sirianni said. McKee, on the other end, completed two touchdown passes on Sunday and might get his first career start against the Giants in week 18. The Eagles have also signed former backup Ian Book to the practice squad for additional depth at the position. This development could give the Eagles a chance to evaluate their QB depth further before postseason pressure mounts. Meanwhile, the NFC East title win highlighted the Eagles’ versatility and star power.

Saquon Barkley rushed for over 2,000 yards this season. And he added 167 of them during Sunday’s victory. A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith delivered highlight-reel catches, ensuring the offense kept rolling even after Pickett’s exit. Despite the setbacks, Pickett’s debut left a lasting impression.

His connection to the Eagles’ storied history and his perseverance through pain embodied the team’s next man up mentality. Fans may have lost him mid-game, but they gained a new appreciation for his grit and determination. As the playoffs approach, the Eagles must balance health concerns with the urgency of postseason preparation.

Whether it’s Hurts, Pickett, or McKee under center, the team’s depth and resilience will be tested. But Sunday’s game proved one thing: this Eagles squad has the heart to keep fighting, no matter who’s taking the snaps.