As Lane Johnson approaches his 12th year in the NFL, the Philadelphia Eagles' stalwart right tackle shows no signs of slowing down. With a career marked by accolades and consistent performance, Johnson remains one of the league's elite linemen. Currently midway through a contract that extends until 2026, Johnson's legacy is firmly cemented.
Consistency and Excellence
A five-time Pro Bowl selection and two-time First Team All-Pro honoree, Johnson has consistently demonstrated his value on the field. Last season, over 547 pass-blocking snaps, he allowed only 29 pressures, boasting a pressure rate per dropback of 5.3%. His ability to protect the quarterback from formidable opponents like Nick Bosa and Montez Sweat speaks volumes about his skill and tenacity.
Veteran Leadership
Despite his individual feats, Johnson remains a team player, focused on the Eagles' overall success. "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," Johnson remarked, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and cohesion on the offensive line. Teammates such as Mekhi Becton, Landon Dickerson, and Jordan Mailata, who each weigh over 330 pounds, contribute to the formidable physical presence of the Eagles' front line. Johnson humorously acknowledged this, saying, "Mekhi's a big man, so I feel small. I can't imagine how Cam [Jurgens] feels, so, it's a good thing."
Balancing Career and Personal Life
As he looks to the future, Johnson is mindful of the balance between his professional aspirations and personal responsibilities. "What weighs on my mind is my kids are getting older, my dad is getting older. He had some health issues," he shared. Such reflections are shaping his decisions about the longevity of his career. "I'm thinking two to three more years, realistically. But we'll see," he mused. Nevertheless, Johnson remains confident in his physical capabilities. "I think physically I can do what [Andrew] Whitworth and JP [Jason Peters] did. I think I can play til 40," he said, suggesting that his play could endure well beyond his current contract.
Learning from the Past, Preparing for the Future
As the Eagles prepare for upcoming seasons, Johnson underlined the importance of learning from past experiences. "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." His commitment to continuous improvement and preparation exemplifies the leadership expected from a veteran lineman of his caliber.
With Johnson set to be 36 when his current deal concludes, his commitment and performance will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. Whether he chooses to extend his career further or transition to life post-NFL, Johnson's contributions to the sport and the Philadelphia Eagles will be remembered and celebrated.