The Case for Cody Kessler as the Eagles’ Backup QB
During the first preseason game, QB Nate Sudfeld exited with an injury that was later confirmed to be a broken wrist, which should sideline him for about six weeks.
Sudfeld has been given every opportunity to seize the #2 job behind franchise QB Carson Wentz, mainly due to his development, rising through the ranks of the organization ever since coming over from the Washington Redskins in 2017.
However, a case could be made that even with a healthy Sudfeld, Cody Kessler should be given more of a shot at the job. He showed some promise as a rookie in Cleveland (although his 0-8 record might suggest otherwise), before sitting in 2017 and getting the starting job midseason on a completely dysfunctional Jaguars offense in 2018.
Kessler was a third-round pick by the Browns, and he had some very decent years at USC – back to back 3,500+ yard seasons and a 39 TD year in 2014 – before that. As far as skills go, he has not been particularly impressive in any areas as a pro but has shown enough accuracy to succeed in a quick rhythm scheme such as what the Eagles employ. It’s important to keep in mind that anything the Birds field at any given point this season, as far as line play and skill positions go, would be lightyears ahead of whatever Kessler had in either Cleveland or Jacksonville.
His experience as a starter in tough games, coupled with the improved supporting cast might suggest that Kessler is one of the better backup candidates in the league. Unluckily for him, Sudfeld’s rise has been steady, and his way more advanced knowledge of the system certainly gives him an edge.
All things considered, Cody Kessler’s performance during Sudfeld’s absence should be closely monitored because, as Eagles recent history perfectly shows, a good backup QB can make all the difference in the world.
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