The Philadelphia Eagles might be breathing a sigh of relief with Lane Johnson's return, but it's clear they need to keep one eye on the future.
NFL insiders like Adam Schefter and LeSean McCoy have hinted that Johnson, despite swirling retirement rumors, is set to return for another season at right tackle. Johnson's recent campaign was marred by a foot injury, limiting him to just 10 games, but his return is a boost for the Eagles' offensive line.
Draft guru Daniel Jeremiah has weighed in with his latest mock draft, predicting the Eagles will focus on their offensive line in the first round by selecting Clemson's Blake Miller as Johnson's heir apparent.
Blake Miller: A Promising Successor
Johnson's credentials as a future Hall of Famer are unquestionable, but his increasing injury woes suggest it's time for the Eagles to plan ahead. Last season, he missed almost half the games, highlighting the need for a reliable backup plan.
Enter Blake Miller, a standout at Clemson. He was a third-team All-ACC pick in 2023 and elevated his game to earn first-team All-ACC honors the past two years. Miller's college career showcased his balanced skills in both run and pass protection, making him a promising prospect for the Eagles.
The ideal scenario would see Miller learning under Johnson's wing for a season or two, absorbing the nuances of the game before stepping into the right tackle role. While the Eagles have other pressing needs, securing the future of their offensive line with Miller could be a strategic move that pays dividends down the road.