Eagles All-Pro Superstar Announces Retirement Out Of Nowhere As Disastrous Season Just Keeps Getting Worse
This article was originally published on Total Pro Sports.
Eagles right tackle Lane Johnson has retired from the NFL after 14 seasons.
Johnson, 36, was the No. 4 overall pick in the 2013 draft out of Oklahoma. A five-time All-Pro (two First-team), he won two Super Bowls with the Eagles, also making six Pro Bowls.
He announced the decision in a statement on X Tuesday, four games into the 2026 season. Johnson cited his family and his mental health.
“Right now, it is critical that I focus on my mental health,” the statement reads. He added that his “personal and family priorities” have changed. He closed with a promise. “Philadelphia will always be home, and I will forever be an Eagle.”
Johnson Hinted At Retirement Before Missing Sunday’s Loss To The Rams
Eagles chairman Jeffrey Lurie called Johnson “an all-time Eagle” in the team’s own announcement.
The news did not arrive entirely without warning. Johnson said in August that 2026 would likely be his last season. “As you get older, things change in your life, priorities, your children get older,” he said, according to NBC Sports Philadelphia.
He also mentioned his parents’ health without elaborating. “My mom’s struggling with some health stuff, my dad,” he said.
Johnson then missed Sunday’s 24-20 loss to the Rams due to a personal matter. Coach Nick Sirianni declined to share details. Rookie Markel Bell started in his place.
According to the aforementioned outlet, the Eagles have gone 98-42-1 with Johnson and 15-29 without him.
“THANK YOU for all of your contributions and commitment to ball. WE APPRECIATE YOU LEGEND.” ESPN’s Pat McAfee wrote under Johnson’s announcement.
“As a fan of the Philadelphia Eagles, you will be deeply missed. But I truly understand your situation even though your dedication is torn, but a family and your mental health come before all.” one fan commented.
Philadelphia now turns to Bell, a third-round pick, at right tackle.
Guard Landon Dickerson remains on injured reserve with a knee injury, and the earliest he can return is Oct. 18 against Carolina. Backup tackle Fred Johnson missed the Rams game with a knee injury, too.
