The Philadelphia Eagles faced a pivotal decision in their recent game against the Washington Commanders, ultimately opting to rest key starters ahead of the upcoming playoffs. This strategy resulted in a 24-17 loss on December 31, 2023, but Coach Nick Sirianni defended his choice, emphasizing the importance of player health over immediate victories.
During the game, backup quarterback Tanner McKee connected with tight end Grant Calcaterra for a routine completion, only for Calcaterra to suffer a significant injury from a hip-drop tackle by Washington safety Jeremy Reaves. The incident raised questions about the wisdom of resting starters and whether avoiding injuries was worth sacrificing a potential higher playoff seed.
Had the Eagles chosen to play their starters, they could have potentially secured the No. 2 seed in the NFC playoffs instead of the No. 3 seed. A victory against the Commanders could have altered the playoff landscape, but the risk of injury loomed large. If starters like Dallas Goedert or left guard Landon Dickerson had been injured instead, the consequences could have been severe, especially with a wild-card game against the San Francisco 49ers approaching.
Sirianni’s decision to rest players was not taken lightly. The debate surrounding whether to prioritize playoff positioning or player health is a recurring theme in the NFL. Defensive tackle Moro Ojomo acknowledged the physical toll of an extended season, noting that rest could be critical for players dealing with injuries as they enter the playoffs. “You get this late in a season, and you get bruised up and banged up, and you don’t know how much it helps a guy who’s been dealing with a shoulder [injury] to have a week off,” Ojomo stated.
Looking back at the Eagles’ performance last season, when they reached and won Super Bowl LIX, there is a precedent for this strategy. In 2022-23, the Eagles rested their starters in a similar situation, which contributed to their playoff success. Sirianni highlighted that each season presents unique challenges, and his approach this year was guided by positive outcomes from previous decisions to rest players.
The implications of this week’s loss may extend beyond the playoff seeding. While some argue that the Eagles have a tougher path to the Super Bowl, the decision to prioritize rest could ultimately prove beneficial. The team eliminated the risk of significant injuries that could hinder their playoff performance, allowing them to enter the postseason healthier and potentially stronger.
As the Eagles prepare for their wild-card matchup, the stakes are high. The strategy of resting starters has drawn both criticism and support, placing added pressure on the team to validate Sirianni’s decision. With the playoffs on the horizon, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if the Eagles can translate their healthy roster into postseason success.
