Five must-win games for Philadelphia Eagles in 2025

Week 8 vs. New York Giants (Oct. 26)

It sounds unfair to say an NFL team must sweep a rival in its division, but that's the case with the Eagles against the Giants. Aside from the defensive line, New York is worse at every other position group. The Giants also have a worse coaching staff and uninspiring quarterback options in Russell Wilson, Jameis Winston and rookie Jaxson Dart, New York's second first-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft . 

Week 15 vs. Las Vegas Raiders (Dec. 14)

The Raiders aren't on the Eagles' level. It's as simple as that. It was nice to see QB Geno Smith have a bit of a renaissance in Seattle, but he's likely to take a step back this season with WRs Jakobi Myers (1,027 yards receiving last season) and Tre Tucker (539 yards) serving as his two main outside weapons in the passing game. He will, however, have budding superstar tight end Brock Bowers (1,194 yards), who starred as a rookie in 2024.  The Eagles are built to neutralize Raiders D-linemen Maxx Crosby and Christian Wilkins with their elite offensive line.

Week 18 vs. Washington Commanders (TBD, flex game)

It will be surprising if the Eagles have the division wrapped up before Week 18 this season. Philadelphia has the fourth-hardest schedule based on the 2024 winning percentage of its opponents (.561, per Yahoo), so this game against the Commanders could decide the NFC East champion. The Eagles beat the Commanders in two of their three meetings last season, with the loss coming in Week 16 (36-33), when QB Jalen Hurts suffered a first-quarter concussion and didn't return.