Which NFL Players Are Sitting Out in Week 18? Here Are the Key Names to Know

 

Which NFL Players Are Sitting Out in Week 18? Key Names to Know

With several teams already secured in the playoffs ahead of their Week 18 season finales, many are opting to rest their starters. With little to gain from another win, the focus shifts to keeping players fresh and injury-free for the postseason. Here’s a rundown of some of the biggest names expected to miss Sunday’s games, aside from those already ruled out due to injuries or personal reasons, such as Anthony Richardson, Brock Purdy, and Tua Tagovailoa.

Josh Allen
Buffalo Bills (at Patriots)

Allen’s situation is unique, as he will start the game but only briefly. The plan is for Allen to play just enough to extend his streak of consecutive starts to 115 games before sitting out for the remainder. Head coach Sean McDermott plans to rotate starters and backups, so don’t expect to see much of other key players like James Cook, Khalil Shakir, or Pro Bowler Dion Dawkins. Amari Cooper will also miss the game, but he’s out for personal reasons.

Saquon Barkley
Philadelphia Eagles (vs. Giants)

Barkley will not play in the season finale against his former team, which means he won’t have a chance to chase Eric Dickerson’s single-season rushing record. Additionally, Jalen Hurts remains sidelined as he continues to work through concussion protocol. Other key Eagles starters, including A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, Jalen Carter, and Darius Slay, are listed as doubtful to play as well.