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The Philadelphia Eagles faced a dilemma coming into Week 18 of the 2024 NFL season. They had nothing left to play for because they had already won the NFC East and no longer had a shot at the NFC’s top seed. Hence, resting their starters would be a wise move, keeping them injury-free before the Wild Card Round.
However, Saquon Barkley was only 101 yards away from breaking Eric Dickerson’s single-season rushing record. With the help of an elite offensive line, he could establish a new mark in their regular-season finale against the New York Giants. Getting that record could boost the team’s confidence heading to the playoffs.
Though both scenarios had merit, Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni chose the former, keeping Barkley and some of their starters sidelined for Week 18. In addition to the Pro Bowl running back, more players are taking the day off versus the Giants.
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Eagles List Barkley, Nine Others as ‘Doubtful’ in Week 18
Sirianni will let most offensive backups play against their NFC East rivals. They listed Barkley as doubtful, meaning his availability could be a game-time decision. Offensive line starters Landon Dickerson, Lane Johnson, and Jordan Mailata are also doubtful for Week 18.
If Barkley and the offensive line starters play, the numbers favor the running back from Penn State in breaking Dickerson’s record. In addition to averaging 117.9 rushing yards per game, the Giants rank 31st in run defense, allowing 141.6 yards per game. New York might even rest their starters, considering they are already out of playoff contention.
"My name is what comes with the 2K, but I can't do it without my guys."
Saquon Barkley after reaching 2,000 yards 🔥🦅 @Eagles pic.twitter.com/dyLFS7KYID
— NFL on FOX Podcast (@NFLonFOXPod) December 29, 2024
Meanwhile, wide receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith are also doubtful for the upcoming game. On defense, linebacker Zack Baun, defensive tackle Jalen Carter, and cornerback Darius Slay Jr. have the same designation.
In related news, Nakobe Dean is also doubtful about playing due to an abdominal injury. Quarterback Jalen Hurts and running back Will Shipley are under the concussion protocol, while Kenny Pickett is questionable due to a rib injury.
UPDATE: The following players are officially OUT -
- QB Jalen Hurts
- CB Darius Slay
- WR DeVonta Smith
- WR A.J. Brown
- LB Nakobe Dean
- RB Saquon Barkley
- LB Zach Baun
- T Lane Johnson
- T Jordan Mailata
- G Landon Dickerson
- DT Jalen Carter
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