Eagles to Rest Jalen Hurts and Key Starters Against Commanders
As the Philadelphia Eagles prepare to face the Washington Commanders this Sunday, a significant decision has emerged regarding their starting lineup. Following their Week 17 victory over the Buffalo Bills, discussions have intensified about whether the starters will take the field, especially as the playoffs approach. Last season, the Eagles opted to rest their key players once they secured the No. 2 seed in the NFC. This year, the situation is somewhat different.
Currently positioned as the No. 3 seed, the Eagles still have the potential to move up to the No. 2 spot. However, reports indicate that the team will rest “most starters,” including quarterback Jalen Hurts, for their final regular-season game against the Commanders. This information was shared by Jeff McLane of The Philadelphia Inquirer via social media.
McLane noted, “Eagles are expected to rest QB Jalen Hurts and most starters in the season finale vs. the Commanders, sources told The Inquirer.” He emphasized that this decision aligns with head coach Nick Sirianni’s previous comments about the advantages of having a ‘bye’ week ahead of the playoffs.
Implications of the Decision
Resting Hurts and other starters could have significant implications for the Eagles as they head into the postseason. While the team will look different in Week 18, the strategy reflects a calculated approach to ensure that their key players are as healthy and prepared as possible for the playoff run.
The Eagles have demonstrated an ability to compete effectively throughout the season, and this decision highlights their focus on long-term success rather than merely securing a higher seed. By prioritizing player health, the Eagles aim to maximize their chances of success when it matters most.
As the team gears up for the playoffs, fans will be watching closely to see how this decision impacts their performance in the coming weeks. The Eagles will hope that resting their starters now pays off when the stakes are at their highest.
