Eagles Accept Playoff Challenge After Resting Starters Costs Higher NFC Seed

Last week, the Philadelphia Eagles wanted to stay healthy for the playoffs. That choice was disadvantageous. After resting most of their players, the Eagles defeated 24–17 to the Washington Commanders at Lincoln Financial Field in Week 18. They missed the No. 2 NFC playoff seed.

The Lions’ win over the Bears earlier in the day complicated things. Philadelphia won and rose in the standings. Instead, the Eagles were seeded third and faced a tougher postseason with many important players sidelined.

San Francisco 49ers visit Philadelphia in wild-card round. The Eagles would have faced the Packers if they won their final regular-season game. The setback raised questions about whether the team wasted an opportunity by resting on momentum.

Player locker room reactions were realistic and driven, not regretful. After the Lions’ win, safety Reed Blankenship said it was hard to watch. He wanted to participate, but rest and recovery were just as important heading into the playoffs. He opted for postseason health over Week 18’s exercise.

Nick Sirianni, head coach, stated sitting starters helped the team after the game. Brandon Graham, a veteran edge rusher, said the Eagles should prioritize potential above missed opportunities. Graham stated the postseason is never easy and good teams must be defeated regardless of seeding. Preparation and execution matter more to him than travel.

D-line The few starters who played against Washington, Jordan Davis, denied discontent. He praised the game for younger players who gained pressure-game experience. Davis enjoyed the players’ effort and said the team is confident.

The Eagles are focused on the future, but the debate over resting starters versus chasing playoff places will continue. Reaching the Super Bowl requires four straight wins against tough competition with minimal margin for error.

Philadelphia starts playoffs following regular season. The postseason will show if resting key players was wise. For now, the Eagles believe health, preparation, and system confidence will trump seed numbers.

Sources:
National Football League (NFL)
Philadelphia Eagles official communications