Since the Philadelphia Eagles have the NFC East and a home playoff game wrapped up, they are looking to get some rest in Week 18. Jeff McLane of the Philadelphia Inquirer reported on Wednesday that the Eagles will rest multiple starters, including quarterback Jalen Hurts and defensive tackle Jalen Carter.
That opens the door for backup QB Tanner McKee to get starting snaps, as well as other young pieces, and the Eagles' decision to do so looks even better after Wednesday. According to ESPN's John Keim, Washington Commanders QB Marcus Mariota (right hand, quad) is doubtful to play this weekend, which means Josh Johnson will get the nod.
While Mariota didn't scare anyone on this defense, getting Johnson instead of him will make the Eagles' pathway to victory that much easier.
Eagles Must Be Loving Commanders' QB Injury News
Johnson started for the Commanders last week against the Dallas Cowboys, throwing for 198 yards, with no passing touchdowns or interceptions. And while he didn't make any mistakes, this was an underwhelming performance, considering how poor the Cowboys' defense has been this season.
Dallas enters Week 18 with the 30th-ranked total defense (376.8), 32nd-ranked pass defense (253.6), and scoring defense (29.8). They have picked apart all season long, but Johnson couldn't even crack 200 passing yards.
Even though Johnson has played for seven different teams throughout his NFL career, he isn't a player who strikes fear into opposing teams. And the Eagles' decision to bench their starters looks even better right now, as they won't need all hands on deck to stop Johnson from being his own worst enemy.
Of course, the Eagles will need to come out and handle business, much like they've done before. Last season in Week 18, the Eagles also rested their starters against the New York Giants and came away with a 20-13 win. McKee went 27-of-41 for 269 passing yards and two passing touchdowns in the win.
The Eagles have shown they can secure wins against division foes without their starters suiting up, and they are looking to achieve that again in Week 18. The fact that Mariota isn't playing gives them a better shot of coming away with the win.
Mariota has started in eight games for the Commanders in 2025, going 2-6 in those outings. Nonetheless, he has thrown for 1,695 passing yards with 10 passing touchdowns, while adding 297 rushing yards. He provided a higher floor at quarterback due to his ability to pick up yards with his legs in addition to his arm.
Regardless of that, he won't be playing, and that works in Philadelphia's favor.