The biggest topic around Philadelphia going into Week 18 has been the starters resting against the Washington Commanders, but is it the right move?
There are two sides to the debate that have made it an interesting decision from Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni. Philly has a chance to move up from the number three seed to number two if the Eagles win and the Chicago Bears lose. At the same time, the Eagles have had a lot of banged-up players throughout the year and could use the rest to have their bodies recover from the damage they took throughout the 2025 season.
As for how the Eagles players feel about it, nobody is complaining. Eagles left tackle Jordan Mailata explained how the break is significant for the players, as it can be hard to understand if people aren't going through it every day.
"For us, it's the biggest advantage possible. It's a bye week."
Eagles could definitely use the rest wherever they can get it
Several players have been hurt this season for the Eagles, and many have played through the pain. Guys like Landon Dickerson and Cam Jurgens have been hurt all year, but they battle to play most of the season despite not being 100%.
Philly has key players like Lane Johnson and Jalen Carter who have missed time late in the season and are still showing up on the injury report, which could use the break to be as close to 100% as possible for the postseason. Nakobe Dean is another example of someone who missed the 13-12 win over the Buffalo Bills due to a hamstring injury, but one more week off would do him wonders.
Another thing to consider is how good it can be for the backups to get experience, just in case they are called upon in the playoffs. Eagles backup quarterback Tanner McKee is getting his second career start in place of Jalen Hurts and might be able to use the performance to get himself on a new NFL team where he can compete for the starting job.
Read more: Stakes couldn't be higher for Eagles' Tanner McKee (and he knows it)
While it would be nice to have the number-two seed and at least two home games in the postseason if they make a run, getting the roster as close to 100% healthy as possible is the most important thing right now.