In news that shocked all of Philadelphia on Tuesday, Eagles Right Tackle Lane Johnson announced his retirement from the NFL.
Johnson leaves an almighty legacy in Philadelphia and will go down as one of the greatest tackles of all time. After being selected with the fourth overall pick back in 2013, the Wisconsin product went on to have a remarkable career, starting 171 games, winning two Super Bowl championships, making 6 Pro Bowls, and earning a pair of first-team All-Pro honors.
Johnson's 2025 season was cut short due to a Lisfranc injury — one that ultimately kept him out of the playoffs. But with intent to end his career on his terms, Johnson fought back to play in midnight green for one more year.
The 36-year-old announced prior to the start of the season that this was likely going to be his last. He had previously spent time away from the team and returned with clarity that this was to be his last rodeo.
Heartbreakingly, that journey has ended sooner than anyone would've wanted. He missed Sunday's loss to the Rams and while conversations surrounding his absence were limited, it was ultimately due to the wider picture.
While nobody really knows the reasons why Johnson has chosen to retire now, he's been very open about his mental health battles and has endured his fair share of injury setbacks. At 36 years old, it's easy to see why he would want control over that decision to retire instead of it being made for him.
The response from team owner Jeffrey Lurie highlights just how beloved Johnson is in Philadelphia:
The legacy Lane Johnson leaves is immeasurable. As gargantuan as he was on the field, his leadership, personality, and openness made him a truly beloved Philadelphian — a man the city has been blessed to see suit up for well over a decade, and a player who was absolutely pivotal in three Super Bowl appearances and two championship rings.
As for what's next for the Eagles? They'll have some hefty decisions to make. Markel Bell has been thrown into the fire and will likely hold the fort for the time being. But no matter who they choose to eventually fill Johnson's boots, nobody could ever truly replace a man who has had such an overwhelming impact on the city.
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