Lane Johnson’s Future Looms Large Over Eagles’ Offseason
The Philadelphia Eagles head into the offseason with more questions than answers, and one of the biggest revolves around a franchise cornerstone: Lane Johnson. The veteran right tackle-arguably the best in the game at his position-has yet to publicly decide whether he’ll return for a 14th season or call it a career. And for now, the Eagles are keeping things close to the vest.
Speaking at the team’s end-of-season press conference, general manager Howie Roseman was asked directly whether Johnson is leaning toward retirement. His response didn’t offer much clarity-but it did reflect the respect Johnson commands in the building.
“I think all those conversations that we have with our players are between us,” Roseman said. “I’m not saying that negatively or positively, but anyone you ask about, I think that’s their business to discuss. Obviously, you’re talking about a Hall of Fame player who’s been a huge, huge part of any of our success that we’ve had, and when you watch him play, he’s still playing at an elite level.”
That last part is key: still playing at an elite level. Because despite missing the final stretch of the season with a foot injury, Johnson’s play before that setback was nothing short of dominant.
In 10 games this season, Johnson didn’t allow a single sack. Not one.
He also gave up zero quarterback hits over 262 pass-blocking snaps. That kind of clean sheet is almost unheard of, especially against the caliber of edge rushers he lines up against week after week.
It’s the kind of performance that doesn’t just earn Pro Bowl nods-it cements legacies.
And Johnson’s legacy in Philadelphia is already a rich one. Over 13 seasons, he’s been selected to six Pro Bowls and five All-Pro teams.
More than just accolades, he’s been the anchor of an offensive line that’s consistently ranked among the league’s best. His presence has been a stabilizing force for the Eagles’ offense, whether it was protecting Carson Wentz during his MVP-caliber run in 2017 or giving Jalen Hurts the time and space to operate in recent years.
But now, the Eagles and their fans are left waiting. Johnson hasn’t played since the November matchup against the Lions, when he suffered the foot injury that ultimately sidelined him for the remainder of the season. Since then, there’s been speculation, but no definitive word.
And that uncertainty is a major storyline heading into the offseason. With multiple players set to hit free agency, Philadelphia already faces a number of roster decisions.
But none may be more impactful than whether No. 65 returns. If Johnson decides to retire, it leaves a massive hole-not just in the starting lineup, but in the locker room leadership structure as well.
For now, the Eagles are giving Johnson the space to make his decision. And given everything he’s meant to the franchise, he’s earned that right.
But make no mistake: his choice will have ripple effects across the organization. Because if Lane Johnson walks away, the Eagles won’t just be replacing a right tackle-they’ll be replacing a legend.