Eagles to Give Starters a Break in Season Finale Against Commanders
The Philadelphia Eagles are set to give most of their starters, including quarterback Jalen Hurts, a well-deserved rest in Sunday's Week 18 finale against the Washington Commanders. According to sources close to the team, this decision is likely due to the upcoming playoffs and the desire to minimize the risk of injury to key players.
With a win and a Bears loss over the Lions, the Eagles can secure the NFC's No. 2 seed, but playing most starters for one more game would be a luxury they can't afford in the postseason. The team is still reeling from last week's poor performance against the Bills, and giving their backups a chance to shine could help iron out any issues.
Coach Nick Sirianni has hinted at this strategy, saying "we'll end up doing what we think's the best for the team" and that it's not a decision he needs to make today or tomorrow. With the Commanders struggling themselves, possibly without starting quarterback Josh Johnson, the Eagles' backup players could easily secure a win.
The main concern is that the Eagles' offense has been inconsistent lately, but in practice, they seem determined to work out their issues before the playoffs begin. The team's desire to get their starters a break and make sure they're fully rested for the postseason suggests that this decision may be the right one.
If the Eagles can secure the NFC's No. 2 seed, it would be a significant advantage going into the playoffs, but it will require a win over the Commanders on Sunday.
The Philadelphia Eagles are set to give most of their starters, including quarterback Jalen Hurts, a well-deserved rest in Sunday's Week 18 finale against the Washington Commanders. According to sources close to the team, this decision is likely due to the upcoming playoffs and the desire to minimize the risk of injury to key players.
With a win and a Bears loss over the Lions, the Eagles can secure the NFC's No. 2 seed, but playing most starters for one more game would be a luxury they can't afford in the postseason. The team is still reeling from last week's poor performance against the Bills, and giving their backups a chance to shine could help iron out any issues.
Coach Nick Sirianni has hinted at this strategy, saying "we'll end up doing what we think's the best for the team" and that it's not a decision he needs to make today or tomorrow. With the Commanders struggling themselves, possibly without starting quarterback Josh Johnson, the Eagles' backup players could easily secure a win.
The main concern is that the Eagles' offense has been inconsistent lately, but in practice, they seem determined to work out their issues before the playoffs begin. The team's desire to get their starters a break and make sure they're fully rested for the postseason suggests that this decision may be the right one.
If the Eagles can secure the NFC's No. 2 seed, it would be a significant advantage going into the playoffs, but it will require a win over the Commanders on Sunday.