The Philadelphia Eagles made a curious decision this offseason - or rather, didn’t make one - and it might come back to sting a bit. Edge rusher Patrick Johnson, who spent the bulk of the 2025 season in midnight green, is now with the New England Patriots. And with the Patriots just one win away from a Super Bowl title, Johnson could be adding another ring to his collection.
New England signed Johnson to their practice squad alongside another addition, giving the former Eagle a shot to be part of a championship roster once again. Johnson played in nine games for Philadelphia this past season, putting together a modest stat line: eight tackles, two pressures, two QB hits, one tackle for loss, and one sack. But the numbers only tell part of the story.
Originally a seventh-round pick by the Eagles back in 2021, Johnson carved out a role as a reliable depth piece and special teams contributor. He’s not the kind of player who jumps off the stat sheet, but he’s the kind of guy coaches trust - especially when injuries hit and depth is tested. That’s exactly how he earned his first career sack this season, stepping in during a banged-up stretch and notching it in a tough loss to the Giants in October.
This isn’t Johnson’s first rodeo in the postseason, either. If the Patriots activate him for the big game, it would mark his third Super Bowl appearance.
He was part of the Eagles’ 2022 squad that fell just short, and he earned a ring with the team during their 2024 title run. Now, he’s got a shot at a second - this time with New England.
It’s unlikely Johnson sees the field unless injuries force the Patriots to dig into their reserves. But just being on the practice squad for a Super Bowl team is no small thing. It’s a testament to the kind of player he is - dependable, prepared, and always ready when his number’s called.
Before this latest stop in New England, Johnson had a brief stint with the Giants in 2024, but Philly was home for most of his NFL journey. He even earned praise from Eagles GM Howie Roseman ahead of the 2025 season, particularly for his special teams work - a role that’s often overlooked but crucial for teams trying to win at the margins.
Now, Johnson joins a growing list of former Eagles who will be part of this year’s Super Bowl. He becomes the sixth ex-Philly player with a shot at the Lombardi Trophy, a bittersweet reminder for Eagles fans of how close - and yet how far - their team was this season.
While fans in Philadelphia are left thinking about what could have been, Johnson has a chance to end his season on the sport’s biggest stage. For a player who’s never been a household name but has always stayed ready, it’s a well-earned opportunity.