Eagles Miss No. 2 Seed After Controversial Decision to Rest Starters in 24-17 Loss to Commanders
Defending Super Bowl champions drop to No. 3 seed, will face injury-riddled 49ers on Sunday in Wild Card Round at the Linc
PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia Eagles’ controversial decision to sit their starters in Week 18 backfired spectacularly Sunday, costing the defending Super Bowl champions the No. 2 seed in the NFC playoffs after a disappointing 24-17 loss to the Washington Commanders at Lincoln Financial Field.
Despite getting help from the Detroit Lions — who delivered a last-second field goal to beat the Chicago Bears 19-16 and open the door for Philadelphia — the Eagles’ backup-filled roster couldn’t capitalize, sparking immediate criticism of head coach Nick Sirianni’s strategic gamble.
The Eagles (11-6) will now host the banged-up San Francisco 49ers (12-5) at 4:30 p.m. ET Sunday on FOX in a Wild Card Round rematch loaded with bad blood. Tom Brady and Kevin Burkhardt will call the game, marking Brady’s sixth Eagles broadcast this season.
The loss means Philadelphia could face a road game in Chicago if both teams win their Wild Card matchups — a scenario that has fans and analysts questioning Sirianni’s decision-making as the Birds try to become the first back-to-back Super Bowl champions since the New England Patriots in 2004-05.
Sirianni Doubles Down on Controversial Strategy
Eagles Coach Has No Regrets Despite Backlash
Sirianni faced intense scrutiny postgame but stood firm on his decision to rest franchise quarterback Jalen Hurts, superstar running back Saquon Barkley, Pro Bowl receiver A.J. Brown, and most of Philadelphia’s starting lineup.
“No, I don’t regret it,” Sirianni said emphatically. “You go through your process, you make what you think is the best decision for the football team, and that’s what we did. I knew this was an outcome, that these things could happen. One thing I could guarantee was giving them rest. I couldn’t guarantee anything else.”
The embattled coach acknowledged the decision would spark debate but insisted player health trumped the potential for improved playoff seeding.
“Us being healthy and going into the playoffs healthy is a big deal for us,” Sirianni added. “That’s served us well in the past. I know there will be debate on that. I have to do what I think is best for the football team moving forward.”
The decision drew sharp criticism from NFL analysts and former coaches. ESPN’s Rex Ryan blasted the move, saying, “If we had a chance for the two seed? Hell yeah, you’re playing the whole game. We’ll rest in the offseason.”
NBC’s Peter King echoed those sentiments: “I don’t understand Nick Sirianni not playing for the 2 seed Sunday. Makes no sense. Seems like a missed opportunity to me, sitting so many of your guys in a game you’d likely win.”
However, some defended the strategy. Former Eagles defensive end Chris Long supported resting players given Philadelphia’s offensive line injuries and the chippy nature of the rivalry after fights in previous matchups. Former NFL receiver Chad Johnson also backed Sirianni, noting “It’s one game or go home. It doesn’t matter where we’re seeded.”
Position-by-Position Breakdown: How Backups Performed
Quarterback: McKee Shows Flashes in First 2026 Start
Stats: 21/40, 241 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT, 68.9 rating
Backup quarterback Tanner McKee received his first start of 2026 and delivered an inconsistent performance that showcased both promise and growing pains. The young signal-caller connected effectively with Pro Bowl receiver DeVonta Smith on opening drives, moving the chains with efficiency.
However, accuracy issues and poor decision-making plagued McKee throughout the afternoon. A devastating second-quarter interception on a forced throw wiped points off the scoreboard and shifted momentum toward Washington.
Despite competent stretches, McKee’s mistakes outnumbered his successes in what became a learning experience rather than a confidence-building victory. The second-year quarterback took three sacks and couldn’t generate consistent offense when it mattered most.
Grade: C
Running Back: Bigsby Delivers Career Performance
Stats: Tank Bigsby – 16 carries, 75 yards, 1 TD; 1 catch, 31 yards
With Saquon Barkley sidelined, Tank Bigsby stepped up and made the most of his opportunity. The powerful runner averaged an impressive 4.7 yards per carry while adding a career-long 31-yard reception.
Bigsby’s physical running style created consistent gains and kept Philadelphia competitive throughout the first half. His one-yard touchdown plunge in the third quarter helped the Eagles mount a comeback attempt after falling behind 16-0.
The puzzling aspect came in the second half, when offensive coordinator Kellen Moore inexplicably abandoned the ground game despite Bigsby’s effectiveness. The running back touched the ball far less frequently after halftime, forcing McKee into obvious passing situations against Washington’s defense.
Rookie Will Shipley saw limited action but struggled with a crucial first-half drop that stalled a drive.
Bigsby’s strong performance suggests he deserves an expanded complementary role in the playoff rotation behind Barkley.
Grade: B+
Wide Receivers: Smith Hits Milestone Before Early Exit
Stats: DeVonta Smith – 3 catches on 4 targets, 52 yards
DeVonta Smith reached 1,000 receiving yards for the season in the first quarter, finishing his regular season campaign with 77 receptions, 1,008 yards and 4 touchdowns. The milestone marked Smith’s third 1,000-yard season in five NFL years, cementing his status as one of Philadelphia’s most reliable offensive weapons.
Smith’s spectacular 27-yard jump ball catch on third-and-1 showcased his contested catch ability and helped the Eagles march toward their first touchdown. Once he crossed the 1,000-yard threshold, the coaching staff wisely pulled him to preserve his health for the playoffs.
With Smith watching from the sideline, the receiving corps struggled to generate production. Jahan Dotson saw eight targets but managed just three catches for 40 yards, failing to capitalize on his expanded role.
Darius Cooper contributed three receptions for 33 yards but committed a costly taunting penalty that shifted field position and contributed to McKee’s second-quarter interception. The undisciplined play exemplified the backup unit’s execution problems.
Grade: B-
Tight End: Calcaterra Injured After Strong Start
Stats: Grant Calcaterra – 2 catches on 3 targets, 21 yards, 1 TD
With All-Pro tight end Dallas Goedert resting, Grant Calcaterra assumed TE1 responsibilities and initially thrived. His 15-yard touchdown reception on a perfectly executed seam route gave Philadelphia an early 7-0 lead.
Unfortunately, Calcaterra’s afternoon ended prematurely when he suffered an injury following what appeared to be a hip-drop tackle — a technique the NFL has attempted to eliminate due to injury risk. The tackle drew criticism from Eagles fans and raised fresh questions about player safety enforcement.
Kylen Granson filled in after Calcaterra’s departure, securing four catches for 30 yards in steady but unspectacular fashion.
Grade: B-
Offensive Line: Makeshift Unit Holds Its Own
The Eagles fielded an almost entirely backup offensive line, with only right guard Tyler Steen remaining from the starting unit. The reshuffled front featured Fred Johnson at left tackle, Brett Toth at left guard, Drew Kendall at center, Steen at right guard, and Matt Pryor at right tackle.
As the game progressed, Philadelphia adjusted the alignment, moving Pryor inside to guard and inserting rookie Cameron Williams at tackle — a significant vote of confidence in the undrafted first-year player.
Given the inexperience and lack of cohesion, the line performed adequately. Bigsby found running lanes and averaged nearly five yards per carry, while McKee faced manageable pressure rather than constant harassment.
For a group of reserves thrust into action against a division rival, the offensive line deserves credit for avoiding complete collapse.
Grade: B
Defensive Line: Strong Against Run, No Pass Rush
Standout: Jalyx Hunt – 2 tackles, 1 INT, 1 FR, 1 PBU
The Eagles rested dominant interior presence Jalen Carter and edge rusher Jaelan Phillips but still deployed several regular contributors. Jordan Davis, Moro Ojomo, Jalyx Hunt, and Nolan Smith all saw extensive action.
Hunt delivered the defensive line’s most impactful performance, recording his third interception of the season while also recovering a fumble and breaking up a pass. The versatile defender’s ball-hawking ability and instincts created turnovers that gave Philadelphia’s offense opportunities.
Philadelphia’s run defense performed admirably, limiting Washington’s ground game. However, the pass rush proved completely ineffective, failing to record a single sack against 39-year-old veteran quarterback Josh Johnson — an immobile, aging signal-caller who should have been vulnerable to pressure.
The inability to harass Johnson raised serious concerns about pass rush depth heading into a playoff matchup against San Francisco’s mobile quarterback.
Grade: B-
Linebackers: Trotter Jr. Makes Case for Expanded Role
Stats: Jeremiah Trotter Jr. – 12 tackles, 2 QB hits, 1 TFL
With starters Zack Baun and Nakobe Dean resting, Jeremiah Trotter Jr. and Jihaad Campbell received starting assignments. Trotter Jr., son of former Eagles All-Pro linebacker Jeremiah Trotter, seized the opportunity with an outstanding all-around performance.
The second-year linebacker’s instincts consistently put him in position to make plays, recording a team-high 12 tackles while adding two quarterback hits and a tackle for loss. Trotter Jr. demonstrated exceptional gap recognition and pursuit angles that belied his limited defensive snaps during the regular season.
For two years, Trotter Jr. has primarily contributed on special teams, but Sunday’s showing suggests he possesses the tools to develop into a meaningful defensive contributor. His physical style and football IQ mirror his father’s playing characteristics.
Campbell also performed competently alongside Trotter Jr., providing additional evidence that Philadelphia has developed serviceable linebacker depth.
Grade: B
Secondary: Penalty-Plagued Disaster Exposes Depth Issues
Stats: Michael Carter II – 9 tackles
The secondary’s performance starkly illustrated why Adoree’ Jackson has maintained his CB2 status throughout the season. Philadelphia’s backup cornerbacks endured a disastrous afternoon, repeatedly getting flagged for penalties that extended Washington drives and erased defensive stops.
The penalty parade included a staggering 123 yards in flags:
- Jakorian Bennett: Defensive holding (5 yards)
- Jakorian Bennett: Pass interference (23 yards)
- Kelee Ringo: Defensive holding (5 yards)
- Mac McWilliams: Pass interference (29 yards)
- Jakorian Bennett: Pass interference (4 yards)
- Kelee Ringo: Pass interference (32 yards)
Bennett proved particularly problematic, drawing three separate flags that kept Commanders drives alive.
While inexperience partially explains the struggles, the sheer volume and timing of penalties raised serious questions about secondary depth. If injuries force backup cornerbacks into playoff action, the Eagles could face severe exploitation by San Francisco’s sophisticated passing attack.
Grade: D+
Special Teams: Solid, Mistake-Free Execution
Stats: Jake Elliott 1/1 FG, 2/2 PAT; Braden Mann 3 punts, 115 yards (38.3 avg)
Special teams coordinator Michael Clay’s units provided one of the few bright spots in an otherwise disappointing afternoon. The Eagles executed without major breakdowns or momentum-shifting mistakes.
Kicker Jake Elliott converted his lone field goal attempt from 39 yards while drilling both extra points. Punter Braden Mann averaged 38.3 yards on three punts, placing one inside the 20-yard line to flip field position.
Return specialist Britain Covey handled two punt returns for 20 yards, while Will Shipley returned two kickoffs for 55 yards. Neither produced explosive gains, but both demonstrated secure ball-handling and sound decision-making.
Despite his defensive struggles, Kelee Ringo contributed a strong tackle on punt coverage that prevented a potential long return.
Grade: B+
Coaching: Strategic Gamble Backfires Spectacularly
Record: 11-6
Sirianni faces intense second-guessing for his decision to rest starters despite having a realistic path to the No. 2 seed. The strategy aimed to keep Philadelphia’s stars healthy while maintaining a chance at improved playoff positioning if the backups could compete.
Instead, the approach delivered the worst possible outcome: key players lost game rhythm heading into the postseason, and the team dropped to the No. 3 seed, potentially forcing a road game in Chicago in the Divisional Round if they advance past San Francisco.
Second-Half Play-Calling Abandons What Worked
The Eagles possessed a functional rushing attack with Bigsby averaging nearly five yards per carry, yet Moore inexplicably shifted to a pass-heavy approach in the second half. Rather than protecting the backup quarterback behind the backup offensive line, Philadelphia placed the outcome squarely on McKee’s shoulders.
The conservative, ground-and-pound strategy that kept the Eagles competitive early disappeared precisely when it should have been emphasized. The philosophical inconsistency raised troubling questions about the coaching staff’s situational awareness.
More concerning, the backup offense exhibited many of the same problematic tendencies — poor third-down execution, untimely penalties, and inconsistent tempo — that have plagued Philadelphia’s starters throughout the season. If systemic issues persist regardless of personnel, the coaching deserves scrutiny.
Grade: D+
Historical Context: No. 3 Seeds Rarely Win Super Bowl
The playoff seeding carries significant historical weight. Since 1975, when the current playoff format began, just five No. 3 seeds have advanced to the Super Bowl — compared to 55 No. 1 seeds, 24 No. 2 seeds, and 11 No. 4 seeds.
The Eagles’ path to repeating as champions just became significantly harder.
49ers Rematch Loaded with Bad Blood
San Francisco Banged Up but Dangerous
The Eagles and 49ers haven’t faced each other since their infamous Week 13 matchup in the 2023 season, when San Francisco dominated Philadelphia 42-19 in a loss that triggered the Eagles’ late-season collapse. That defeat sparked a 1-5 finish that saw Philadelphia stumble into the playoffs before suffering an embarrassing Wild Card exit to Tampa Bay.
The game also featured Eagles security chief Dom DiSandro and then-49ers linebacker Dre Greenlaw being ejected after a sideline scuffle, adding extra edge to an already heated rivalry.
The upcoming rematch carries significant psychological weight. Philadelphia must prove they’ve overcome the demons from that humiliating performance while simultaneously addressing the execution issues that resurfaced Sunday against Washington’s backups.
However, the Eagles catch a break with San Francisco’s injury situation. The 49ers are already without several key defensive players:
- Nick Bosa (ACL): Star pass rusher out for season
- Fred Warner: All-Pro linebacker not expected back until later rounds if 49ers advance
- Tatum Bethune: Backup linebacker out for season with groin injury (suffered in Week 18)
- Trent Williams (hamstring): Pro Bowl left tackle’s status uncertain
- Ricky Pearsall (knee/ankle): Wide receiver questionable for Wild Card
Despite the injuries, San Francisco enters battle-tested after playing meaningful football in Week 18, while Philadelphia comes in having rested starters and lacking competitive intensity. The 49ers’ seventh-ranked offense and veteran playoff experience present a formidable challenge.
The Eagles are currently 3.5-point favorites at Lincoln Financial Field, where they’ve dominated opponents all season.
Eagles Historical Significance at Stake
Philadelphia has a chance to join elite company. Only eight franchises have won back-to-back Super Bowls in NFL history:
- Green Bay Packers (1966-67)
- Miami Dolphins (1972-73)
- Pittsburgh Steelers (1974-75, 1978-79)
- San Francisco 49ers (1988-89)
- Dallas Cowboys (1992-93)
- Denver Broncos (1997-98)
- New England Patriots (2003-04, 2016-17)
The Eagles are also the first NFC East team to win consecutive division titles since… the 2001-04 Philadelphia Eagles, who won four straight before losing the Super Bowl to the Patriots.
What’s Next: Win or Go Home
Sirianni’s decision to rest starters may yet prove wise if Philadelphia emerges healthy and sharp. But if the Eagles exit the playoffs early after sacrificing the No. 2 seed, the Week 18 strategy will haunt the organization throughout the offseason.
The chess match begins Sunday at 4:30 p.m. ET on FOX at Lincoln Financial Field. The winner advances to face either the Chicago Bears or Green Bay Packers in the Divisional Round. The loser faces months of questions about opportunities squandered.
For the defending Super Bowl champions, anything less than another title will be considered a failure — especially if the path becomes harder because of a controversial Week 18 decision.
Game Information
NFC Wild Card Round
#6 San Francisco 49ers (12-5) at #3 Philadelphia Eagles (11-6)
Date: Sunday, January 11, 2026
Time: 4:30 p.m. ET
Location: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, PA
TV: FOX
Announcers: Kevin Burkhardt (play-by-play), Tom Brady (analyst)
Betting Line: Eagles -3.5
What’s at Stake:
Winner advances to Divisional Round (likely at Chicago if Bears win)
Eagles trying to become first back-to-back Super Bowl champions since 2004 Patriots
49ers looking for revenge after losing 31-7 in 2022 NFC Championship
Key Storylines:
- Can Eagles’ offense find rhythm after Week 18 rest?
- Will 49ers’ injuries doom their playoff run?
- Eagles-49ers rivalry reignites after chippy 2023 matchup
- Tom Brady’s sixth Eagles broadcast of the season
- Jalen Hurts vs. 49ers’ depleted defense
