The Philadelphia Eagles have arguably the best roster in the NFL. One game fans can look back on as a turning point between these two franchises came on Jan. 3, 2021.
That was Philadelphia quarterback Jalen Hurts’ rookie season. Hurts started against the Washington Commanders on that day. The game meant everything to Washington but nothing to the Eagles, as the Commanders were a win away from the NFC East championship.
Buy Commanders TicketsHurts struggled to pass the football that day but had two rushing touchdowns to keep the game close. Yet, then-Eagles coach Doug Pederson pulled Hurts for Nate Sudfeld, and it was clear to everyone the Eagles were trying to lose for draft positioning.
Since that time, the Eagles have rapidly rebuilt their roster, and Hurts ascended into a franchise quarterback. Last year, the Eagles almost won their second Super Bowl in five years.
Meanwhile, Washington remains stuck in .500 purgatory.
On Sunday, the longtime NFC East rivals meet for the first time in 2023. Here are five Eagles other than Hurts for Washington fans to watch.
RB D'Andre Swift
The Eagles have a new running back for this weekend’s showdown with the Commanders. D’Andre Swift has rushed for 308 yards through three games, averaging around 103 rushing yards per game. Swift is an outstanding back whose only knock has been his ability to stay healthy. Washington knows all about Swift. In Week 2 last season, while Swift was with the Detroit Lions, he accounted for 87 total yards on seven touches and scored a touchdown.
He makes Philly’s offense even more dangerous.
WR DeVonta Smith
In his young NFL career, DeVonta Smith has already enjoyed some success against the Commanders. In four games against Washington, Smith has 20 receptions for 302 yards and two touchdowns. Philly has two star wideouts, and Washington can’t allow Smith and A.J. Brown to beat them.
DE Josh Sweat
Josh Sweat is quietly one of Philadelphia’s impact defenders. He’s certainly had success against the Commanders. In his last three games vs. Washington, Sweat has four sacks. This season, Sweat is tied for the team lead with 1.5 sacks. The Commanders have struggled with explosive edge rushers. Keep an eye on Sweat this Sunday.
DT Jalen Carter
The rookie defensive tackle has been as advertised through three games. Carter already looks like a star. In three games, he has 15 pressures, tied for second in the NFL among defensive tackles. Carter and Jordan Davis will be a major problem for Washington’s struggling offensive line.
CB Darius Slay
Darius Slay is one of the NFL’s top cornerbacks. He hasn’t always had his best games against Washington’s star wideout, Terry McLaurin. Earlier this year, Slay showed respect to McLaurin, saying he was the second-best wide receiver he faced last season behind Justin Jefferson.
If the Commanders can protect QB Sam Howell, Slay and McLaurin will be another fun battle to watch.
