Eagles Turn to Tanner McKee as Rest Takes Priority Over Seeding

The Philadelphia Eagles’ narrow Week 17 win over the Buffalo Bills pushed their record to 11–5 and extended their winning streak to three games, but it did little to quiet questions about the offense. Still, the victory locked in the NFC East title and guaranteed the Eagles a home playoff game.

While Philadelphia technically remains in play for the No. 2 seed, it cannot drop below third in the conference. That reality has shaped the team’s strategy entering the regular-season finale.

Rather than chase marginal improvements in seeding, the Eagles have opted for caution. Head coach Nick Sirianni and his staff are preparing to rest several banged-up starters in Week 18.

The most notable change will be at quarterback, where Tanner McKee will start in place of Jalen Hurts. It marks McKee’s first start since last season’s finale and signals a broader emphasis on health over hardware.

1. A Backup Ready for the Moment

For McKee, the assignment comes without warning but not without preparation. The third-year quarterback said he approaches each week as if he is the starter, a mindset that has made the transition smoother. He spent the days leading up to the game reworking the call sheet and mentally rehearsing scenarios, trying to ensure that execution comes naturally rather than through overthinking. That process reflects the Eagles’ trust in their depth, even if expectations are tempered by the fact that McKee will be working with a largely reshuffled lineup. Against Washington, McKee will be asked less to carry the offense and more to manage the game while avoiding the mistakes that could undermine Philadelphia’s defensive edge.

2. Hurts Under the Microscope

Despite guiding Philadelphia to a Super Bowl title and earning MVP honors a year ago, Hurts has faced persistent criticism this season. The scrutiny has intensified with each uneven offensive showing. Statistically, his passing production has been strong: 3,224 yards, a career-high 25 touchdown passes and only six interceptions. By those measures, his efficiency has not wavered. What has changed is his impact as a runner. Hurts’ 421 rushing yards and eight scores on the ground are both career lows as a starter, a shift that has altered how defenses play Philadelphia. Whether by design or necessity, the Eagles’ offense has leaned less on Hurts’ legs, raising questions about how dangerous it can be in January.

3. A Different Look in Week 18

McKee will not have the full complement of weapons at his disposal. Tight end Dallas Goedert and defensive cornerstone Jalen Carter have already been ruled out, with several other starters set to sit as well. The result will resemble a preseason lineup more than a playoff tune-up, underscoring just how little Philadelphia has to gain from the game in the standings. For younger players and reserves, the matchup offers a rare chance to prove their value under live conditions. For the coaching staff, it is a stress test of depth. Win or lose, the Eagles’ priorities are clear: arrive at the postseason healthy, confident and ready to reassert the form that once made them the league’s standard-bearer.