At a Glance
- Eagles rest key starters for Week 18 vs. Commanders
- Commanders likely start 39-year-old Josh Johnson
- Backup players will get a chance to shine
- Why it matters: Fans can spot future starters and see how backups perform against a four-win team
The Philadelphia Eagles have chosen to rest Jalen Hurts and other starters for their Week 18 clash with the Washington Commanders, giving the team’s backup roster a chance to step onto the field. With the Commanders expected to field veteran Josh Johnson, the game becomes a showcase for the Eagles’ depth.
Key Backup Players to Watch
Several backups have already proven themselves in limited action and could make an impact in this game.
- QB Tanner McKee – 2023 sixth-round pick, 5 career games, 1 start in Week 18 vs. Giants, 27/41 passes for 269 yards and 2 TDs. Big pocket, quick processor.
- RB Tank Bigsby – Traded early September, 42 carries for 269 yards (6.4 avg), 1 TD. Under contract through 2026.
- WR Darius Cooper – UDFA from Tarleton State, 6 catches for 59 yards, 158 snaps, solid blocker.
- WR Jahan Dotson – No. 3 receiver, 15 catches for 222 yards, 2 TDs, 539 snaps, last year Week 18 7 catches for 94 yards, big Super Bowl LIX catch.
- WR Britain Covey – Primary punt returner, only 5 offensive snaps, 132 offensive snaps in 4 years, shiftiness on returns.
- C Drew Kendall – Drafted Day 3, 25 offensive snaps, 6 games.
- OT Cameron Williams – Activated from IR, 6th-round pick, first NFL game Sunday.
- LB Jihaad Campbell – First-round pick, started season, now backup, encouraging rookie.
- LB Jeremiah Trotter Jr. – Backup, special teams, natural instincts, could play more on defense.
- DT Ty Robinson – 4th-round pick, 53 defensive snaps.
- CB Mac McWilliams – 5th-round pick, 7 defensive snaps, learning nickel/outside corner.
- CB Michael Carter II – Mid-season trade, nickel/safety, 2 years left, no guarantee.
Game Outlook
With the Eagles’ starters resting, the Commanders’ four-win record and likely use of Josh Johnson add intrigue. The backup players will face a defensive line that has shown resilience, giving them a chance to prove themselves.
Key Takeaways
- Eagles rest starters, giving backups a spotlight.
- Commanders likely field veteran Josh Johnson.
- Backup players like McKee, Bigsby, and Cooper could show future starter potential.
As the Eagles look to finish the season on a high note, fans will watch how the backup roster performs against a struggling Commanders squad, potentially setting the stage for the next season’s depth chart.
