Eagles Reveal Starting Quarterback For Week 18 Commanders Game: Tanner McKee Gets the Nod as Philly Rests Jalen Hurts
On January 1, 2026, the Philadelphia Eagles made it official: backup quarterback Tanner McKee will start in the Week 18 regular-season finale against the Washington Commanders at Lincoln Financial Field on Sunday, January 4. Head coach Nick Sirianni and the organization have decided to rest superstar Jalen Hurts and several key starters, prioritizing health and freshness for the playoffs over chasing the NFC’s No. 2 seed.
The announcement, first reported by Jeff McLane of The Philadelphia Inquirer and confirmed across multiple outlets including The Athletic and ESPN, marks McKee’s second career start—and his first of the 2025 season. The 25-year-old Stanford product, a 2023 sixth-round pick, steps in with the Eagles locked into at least the No. 3 seed but with a slim path to No. 2 (requiring a win plus a Chicago Bears loss to Detroit).
The Decision: Resting Hurts and Starters for Playoff Health
Sirianni informed players of the plan during a team meeting on December 31, 2025, emphasizing the value of a “manufactured bye” week heading into the postseason. The Eagles (11-5) have clinched the NFC East and a home wild-card game, rendering Week 18 low-risk for injury but high-reward for recovery.
Jalen Hurts, who has started every game in 2025 and led Philly to a strong finish despite mid-season offensive struggles, will sit to ensure he’s 100% for the playoffs. No lingering injuries are reported for Hurts—purely precautionary.
Sirianni’s strategy draws from past success: Resting starters in Week 18 of 2024 contributed to a deep playoff run. Internally, the Eagles believe their depth—proven in backup wins last year—can handle a depleted Commanders squad (4-12, eliminated, likely starting third-string QB Josh Johnson).
Other expected rests include Saquon Barkley (chasing records but health first), A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, Lane Johnson, and select defenders. Some starters may dress but see limited snaps.
Tanner McKee: From Backup to Spotlight
McKee, the Eagles’ No. 2 QB all season (after Kenny Pickett’s offseason trade), has appeared in three games in 2025, going 3-for-3 for 33 yards. But his pedigree and flashes excite: Accurate pocket passer with strong arm, excellent decision-making, and poise.
Last year’s Week 18 start vs. Giants: 27/41, 269 yards, 2 TDs, 0 INTs in a win—earning praise from Sirianni.
McKee reacted excitedly: “Super excited for the opportunity… I’ve been preparing to play each week.” He added value mentoring under Hurts.
Offensive coordinator (assuming Kellen Moore or similar) will simplify for McKee, leaning on run game (Tank Bigsby?) and quick passes.
The Matchup: Eagles Backups vs. Commanders’ Depleted Squad
Washington (4-12) starts veteran journeyman Josh Johnson (39, 14th team) with Jayden Daniels (elbow) shut down and Marcus Mariota (hand/quad) doubtful. Their offense ranks bottom-tier; defense vulnerable.
Eagles favored by 3.5 points post-announcement (down from 7.5). Backups could win outright—similar to last year’s Giants victory.
Game time: 4:25 p.m. ET, potential flex implications gone.
Implications: Seeding, Depth Showcase, Trade Value?
No. 2 seed requires Eagles win + Bears loss—possible but not banked on. No. 3 means hosting No. 6 (likely Rams rematch).
McKee’s performance: Showcase for trade value? Teams needing QBs eye him as starter-caliber.
Fan reaction mixed: Some want full effort for seed; most support rest for Super Bowl repeat.
Sirianni: “We’re playing to win… but health is priority.”
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