Reports Confirmed: Eagles to Start Tanner McKee, Rest Jalen Hurts and Key Starters in Week 18 Finale vs. Commanders

On December 31, 2025, multiple credible reports emerged confirming that the Philadelphia Eagles plan to rest quarterback Jalen Hurts and several other key starters in their regular-season finale against the Washington Commanders on January 4, 2026, at Lincoln Financial Field. Backup quarterback Tanner McKee is expected to make the start, marking his second consecutive Week 18 appearance under center. This decision, first broken by Jeff McLane of The Philadelphia Inquirer and quickly corroborated by outlets like ESPN, NBC Sports Philadelphia, Bleeding Green Nation, and CBS Sports, prioritizes player health and a “manufactured bye week” as the defending Super Bowl champions gear up for the playoffs with an 11-5 record and the NFC East title secured.

The Eagles are locked into at least the No. 3 seed in the NFC, guaranteeing a home Wild Card game. A win over the Commanders combined with a Chicago Bears loss could elevate them to the No. 2 seed, but head coach Nick Sirianni and the organization have opted for caution, drawing from successful past precedents where resting starters preceded deep playoff runs—including the 2024 Super Bowl victory.

The Breaking Report and Confirmation Wave

The story gained traction early on New Year’s Eve when McLane tweeted: “#Eagles are expected to rest QB Jalen Hurts and most starters in the season finale vs. the Commanders, sources told The Inquirer.” This aligned with Sirianni’s recent comments emphasizing the benefits of extra rest, and it wasn’t long before national confirmation followed.

ESPN’s Tim McManus reported: “Tanner McKee is expected to start at quarterback as the Eagles are planning to rest some starters for Sunday’s regular-season finale against the Washington Commanders, a source confirmed.” McManus highlighted McKee’s spot-duty efficiency this season—33-of-48 for 356 yards, four touchdowns, zero interceptions—and Sirianni’s praise: “When you see Tanner, he’s really good about knowing where to go with the football, seeing the defense and being able to deliver things accurately.”

NBC Sports Philadelphia echoed: “Backup quarterback Tanner McKee is expected to get the start in the regular season finale.” Bleeding Green Nation declared “It’s Tanner McKee time!” while noting the team’s confidence in depth to potentially still secure a win. CBS Sports and PhillyVoice similarly detailed the plan, with PhillyVoice noting it “shouldn’t come as a surprise based on HC Nick Sirianni’s comments.”

By evening, Sirianni addressed the media in a press conference, neither confirming nor denying specifics but praising the quarterback room’s cohesion and McKee’s preparation alongside Hurts.

Why Rest Now? Sirianni’s Historical Precedent and Strategic Rationale

Sirianni’s approach is informed by the Eagles’ experiences over his tenure:

• 2022: Rested starters in Week 18 en route to Super Bowl appearance.
• 2023: Played starters despite seeding implications; injuries (e.g., A.J. Brown’s knee) contributed to early playoff exit.
• 2024: Rested key players (even denying Saquon Barkley a rushing record chase); culminated in Super Bowl LIX victory.
• 2025: Mirroring successful years, prioritizing health over a slim No. 2 seed chance.

As The Athletic’s Zach Berman noted: “This will be the fourth time in five seasons in which the Eagles have rested key players ahead of the postseason.” Sirianni informed players in a Wednesday meeting, per reports, emphasizing trust in depth.

The Commanders (likely 4-12 or worse) present a favorable matchup, potentially starting third-string veteran Josh Johnson amid their own injuries. Analysts believe the Eagles’ reserves—bolstered by strong second-string talent—can compete effectively, preserving the seeding upside without risking stars.

Tanner McKee: Spotlight on the Backup Turned Starter

At 25, McKee—a 2023 sixth-round pick from Stanford—enters his second straight Week 18 start. Last season, he led a backup-heavy squad to victory over the Giants, showcasing poise. This year, limited action has been flawless, fueling trade buzz for 2026 amid a weak quarterback draft class.

Sirianni lauded McKee’s growth: “He’s got Jalen, being able to learn from Jalen, which is a huge deal… Anytime you’re around a really good quarterback, your game goes up too.” McKee’s accuracy, pre-snap processing, and mentorship under Hurts position him well.

Potential supporting cast: Kenny Gainwell at RB, Grant Calcaterra at TE, Britain Covey/Parris Campbell at WR, and rookies/veterans filling defensive roles. Some starters may dress for roster compliance but see minimal snaps.

Trade speculation abounds—teams like the Chiefs (post-Mahomes injury concerns) or others seeking young QBs could inquire, with McKee’s team-friendly deal adding value.

Expected Rest List and Injury Context

While not officially detailed, reports suggest:

• Inactive: Hurts, Barkley (load management), A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, possibly others.
• Limited/No snaps: Select offensive/defensive linemen.

The Wednesday estimated injury report (non-participants: Nakobe Dean, Dallas Goedert, Lane Johnson, Jaelan Phillips) aligns with precautionary measures; these players will almost certainly sit.

Playoff Implications and Fan/Media Reaction

As No. 3 seed baseline:

• Host Wild Card (potential vs. Packers, Rams, or others).
• No. 2 seed path: Win + Bears loss → Divisional home game.

Experts praise the move: Health trumps marginal seeding in a physical NFC. Fans mix excitement for McKee with understanding—social media buzzes with “Trust Sirianni’s process” and predictions of a backup win.

Critics note offensive struggles (e.g., vs. Bills) could benefit from reps, but consensus favors freshness.

Jalen Hurts and Leadership Perspective

Hurts, in his December 31 presser, supported the plan: Focused on leadership, whether playing or sidelined. As Super Bowl LIX MVP, his health is paramount for a repeat bid.

Looking Ahead: A Calculated Risk for January Dominance

This strategic rest embodies championship poise. With depth proven and a weak opponent, the Eagles balance competition and conservation. McKee’s performance could audition for future roles—internally or elsewhere—while stars recharge.

If backups deliver, No. 2 seed remains alive. Regardless, Philadelphia enters playoffs healthy, experienced, and hungry. A calculated gamble poised for payoff.