N※N

Eagles Rest Jalen Hurts for Week 18

  //sports-competition.news-articles.net/content/2026/01/31/eagles-rest-jalen-hurts-for-week-18.html
  Published in Sports and Competition on Saturday, January 31st 2026 at 10:57 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: Pennsylvania, Missouri, Maryland, UNITED STATES

Philadelphia, PA - January 31st, 2026 - In a move widely anticipated given their secure playoff positioning, the Philadelphia Eagles will be resting starting quarterback Jalen Hurts for their Week 18 regular season finale against the New York Giants. Rookie Tanner McKee will make his second start of the season, providing valuable game experience while allowing Hurts to further heal a lingering shoulder injury. The decision, announced earlier today, reflects a pragmatic approach from head coach Nick Sirianni, prioritizing long-term success over a potentially unnecessary risk in a game with no impact on the Eagles' playoff seeding.

The announcement confirms weeks of speculation surrounding Hurts' health. The quarterback sustained a shoulder injury in the Week 15 contest against the Dallas Cowboys and has played through it in subsequent games. However, with the Eagles already having clinched a playoff berth and secured the No. 5 seed, the coaching staff deemed it prudent to allow Hurts additional recovery time ahead of the more critical postseason games.

"We feel like it's in the best interest of Jalen and the team to give him another week to continue to heal and prepare for the playoffs," Sirianni stated in a press conference. "Jalen is our guy, and we want him at 100% for the tournament. This allows him to do that while giving a great opportunity to Tanner."

McKee, a third-round pick from Stanford in the 2024 draft, has seen limited action this season, appearing in two games and completing 10 of 17 passes for 82 yards. While his statistics are modest, the game represents a crucial learning opportunity for the young quarterback. For McKee, the Week 18 start isn't about winning or losing, it's about gaining invaluable experience under the bright lights of an NFL stadium, reading defenses, and building chemistry with his receivers. The Eagles' coaching staff will undoubtedly tailor the game plan to allow McKee to showcase his abilities within a manageable framework.

Broader Implications and the NFC Playoff Picture

The Eagles' decision carries implications beyond simply resting their star quarterback. It adds another layer of intrigue to a Week 18 slate of games where several teams are still battling for playoff spots. The New York Giants, already eliminated from contention, have little to play for. However, the game holds significant weight for the Dallas Cowboys, who need a win against the Detroit Lions to secure the NFC East title.

An Eagles loss, even with McKee at the helm, will undoubtedly bolster the Cowboys' chances of winning the division. While the Eagles aren't actively trying to lose, the focus on player safety and playoff preparation means a full-throttle effort isn't expected. Analysts predict the Cowboys will be monitoring the Eagles-Giants game closely, potentially influencing their in-game strategy and playcalling. The Cowboys-Lions game has become a de-facto division championship game and is drawing massive viewership numbers.

The Rise of Rookie Quarterback Evaluation in the Modern NFL

The Eagles' approach highlights a growing trend in the NFL: prioritizing the development of rookie quarterbacks, even when the team isn't in dire need of a win. In recent years, teams have become increasingly willing to give young quarterbacks meaningful playing time towards the end of the season, recognizing the long-term benefits of live-game experience. This strategy contrasts sharply with the past, where teams often preferred to shield their rookies from potential setbacks.

The benefits are multi-faceted. Beyond the on-field experience, it allows coaches to assess a rookie's potential and build a development plan for the offseason. It also gives the rookie a chance to build confidence and acclimate to the speed and complexity of the NFL. The Eagles' investment in McKee is a testament to their belief in his potential and their commitment to building a sustainable quarterback pipeline.

Looking Ahead: Eagles Playoff Path

Despite the decision to rest Hurts, the Eagles remain a formidable playoff contender. As the No. 5 seed, they will face a challenging opponent in the first round, likely the NFC South champion. However, with a healthy Hurts under center, the Eagles are considered by many analysts to be a legitimate Super Bowl threat. The extra week of rest will be crucial in allowing Hurts to fully recover and prepare for the rigors of the playoffs.

The Eagles-Giants game, scheduled for 4:25 p.m. ET at Lincoln Financial Field, will be a final opportunity for fans to see the team in action before the playoffs begin. While the stakes may be lower than usual, the game still promises to be an exciting showcase of young talent and strategic coaching.