Eagles rest candidates for Sunday vs Commanders

The Philadelphia Eagles’ upcoming game against the Washington Commanders matters, but it isn’t a win-or-go-home type of scenario.

After the Eagles defeated the Commanders two weeks ago, they won the NFC East. Once it was evident the Eagles punched their ticket to the playoffs, the next two weeks came into question.

The Eagles could’ve rested key players this past Sunday against the Buffalo Bills. They chose to approach the game business as usual, playing all of their healthy starters. As a result, the Eagles made it out of New York with a tight victory, helping them potentially improve their seeding for the Wild Card Round of the playoffs.

Heading into the final week, the Eagles are faced with the same question. This time around, they are expected to take a different approach.

Who Could Rest vs Commanders?

On Wednesday morning, Jeff McLane of the Philadelphia Inquirer reported that the Eagles were expected to rest quarterback Jalen Hurts on Sunday, leaving Tanner McKee in the driver’s seat for the game.

Eagles News: Eagles' expected Jalen Hurts decision vs Commanders revealed

As far as the rest of the roster goes, McLane listed a bunch of players who are “likely” to be on the bench.

On offense, the Eagles could rest Lane Johnson, Jordan Mailata, Landon Dickerson, Cam Jurgens, Saquon Barkley, AJ Brown, DeVonta Smith, and Dallas Goedert.

There wouldn’t be any surprises here. Maybe Johnson could use some reps after missing a chunk of the season with a foot injury, but getting him fully healthy in the first round is an even better gamble.

On defense, the Eagles could rest Jalen Carter, Jordan Davis, Moro Ojomo, Jaelan Phillips, Nolan Smith, Jaylx Hunt, Zach Baun, Nakobe Dean, Quinyon Mitchell, Cooper DeJean, Adoree' Jackson, Reed Blankenship, and Marcus Epps.

As McLane noted, several players listed could be suited up and playing, as the Eagles can’t sit every key contributor, but this list is a solid hint at the potential options for Sunday afternoon.