As Lane Johnson marks his 12th year in the NFL, the seasoned right tackle for the Philadelphia Eagles continues to solidify his legacy as one of the league's premier offensive linemen. At 325 pounds, Johnson stands out not only for his physical presence but also for his remarkable consistency and dominance on the field.
A Career of Excellence
Johnson's accolades speak volumes about his skill and durability. Having been selected to the Pro Bowl five times and honored with First Team All-Pro twice, he remains a cornerstone of the Eagles' offensive line. Last season, in particular, Johnson showcased his elite pass-blocking abilities over 547 snaps, allowing a mere 29 pressures. His pressure rate per dropback was an impressive 5.3%, underlining his critical role in the Eagles' offense.
His ability to neutralize formidable opponents like Nick Bosa and Montez Sweat in three combined meetings is a testament to his unparalleled technique and tenacity. Despite facing some of the league's most challenging edge rushers, Johnson has consistently risen to the occasion, protecting his quarterback with aplomb.
Contract and Future
Johnson's current contract ties him to Philadelphia until the end of the 2026 season, at which point he will be 36. Reflecting on his future in the NFL, Johnson remains pragmatic but optimistic. "I'm thinking two to three more years, realistically. But we'll see," he said, indicating a keen awareness of the physical demands of professional football. However, he doesn't rule out the possibility of an extended career, inspired by the longevity of fellow offensive linemen. "I think physically I can do what [Andrew] Whitworth and JP [Jason Peters] did. I think I can play til 40," he shared.
While Johnson's passion for the game is evident, he also acknowledges the personal factors that weigh on his mind. "What weighs on my mind is my kids are getting older, my dad is getting older. He had some health issues," he admitted, expressing a sentiment many veterans share as they balance professional commitments with family responsibilities. "Those are things that weigh on my mind. But at least, two, three, four good years."
Teammates and Team Dynamics
Standing alongside teammates like Mekhi Becton, Landon Dickerson, and Jordan Mailata, each weighing over 330 pounds, Johnson ironically describes feeling "small." "Mekhi's a big man, so I feel small. I can't imagine how Cam [Jurgens] feels so, it's a good thing," he quipped, highlighting the impressive size of the Eagles' offensive line.
Despite the physical disparity, Johnson emphasizes the importance of communication and cohesion among the linemen. "For us, it's about whoever is in there the communication is good. We're not having any missed assignments, so that's progress in a good direction," he explained. This commitment to seamless teamwork and strategic execution is a hallmark of Johnson's professional ethos.
Lessons from the Past
Johnson also draws lessons from previous challenges, particularly referencing a difficult game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. "We definitely don't want what happened in Tampa Bay happening again. A lot of answers to boot zero, fell and hot. We worked on that a lot. Still working on it," he said. This determination to learn and improve from past experiences underscores his leadership and dedication to continual growth.
As Johnson continues his NFL journey, his blend of skill, experience, and perspective positions him as a pivotal player for the Eagles. His future may be shaped by a variety of factors, but one thing is clear: Lane Johnson's impact on the field and in the locker room will be felt for years to come.