Eagles make surprising decision to rest Jalen Hurts ahead of pivotal playoff matchup
The Philadelphia Eagles are set to rest several key players for their Week 18 showdown against the Washington Commanders, with quarterback Jalen Hurts expected to be among them. This decision comes as a shock to many fans, especially considering the implications surrounding the playoffs.
Playoff Scenarios and Strategic Decisions
The Eagles find themselves in a position where a victory over the Commanders could elevate them from the No. 3 seed to the No. 2 seed in the NFC, provided the Detroit Lions secure a win against the Chicago Bears. Despite this opportunity, the Eagles are opting for caution, trusting that backup quarterback Tanner McKee can lead the team to victory.
Left tackle Jordan Mailata addressed the situation, emphasizing the team’s focus on their performance rather than the outcomes of other games. “That’s out of our control (because) we need the Bears to lose,” Mailata remarked. “All I care about is getting the win for us. We can’t control (what the Bears do). We just gotta get that win. And however the cards fall, that’s what it is.”
Injury Report and Team Strategy
The initial injury report released this week hints at the starters who may be sidelined, as the Eagles held a walkthrough on Wednesday. The report serves as an estimation, reflecting the team’s cautious approach as they prioritize player health over playoff positioning.
As the Eagles gear up for their critical matchup, the decision to rest Hurts and other key players will be closely scrutinized. Fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how this bold move plays out, especially in light of the team’s playoff aspirations. The balance between securing a win and protecting star players has set the stage for an intriguing finale to the regular season.
