PHILADELPHIA: Lane Johnson, the Philadelphia Eagles’ right tackle, retired from the National Football League (NFL) on Tuesday. The 36-year-old said he needed to prioritise his mental health and family.
Johnson announced the decision on Instagram after missing Sunday’s game against the Los Angeles Rams. He had hoped to play another season but explained that his personal and family priorities had changed.
“Right now, it is critical that I focus on my mental health,” he wrote.
He told teammates, coaches and supporters that they deserved his full commitment. After reflecting on whether he could give that, Johnson decided to leave football.
His absence against the Rams surprised the Eagles. They learned only that morning that he would not play. Philadelphia attributed his absence to personal reasons.
Johnson had considered retirement during the offseason before returning for another campaign. On August 8, he told reporters that 2026 would probably be his final year. Priorities outside football had become more important.
Philadelphia selected Johnson fourth overall in the 2013 draft from Oklahoma. He spent his entire NFL career with the Eagles, earning six Pro Bowl selections and two first-team All-Pro honours. Across 14 seasons, he helped Philadelphia win two Super Bowl titles.
Eagles chairman and chief executive Jeffrey Lurie praised Johnson’s contribution under several coaching staffs. Lurie expressed confidence that the tackle would eventually enter the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
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Rookie Markel Bell, a third-round draft pick, started against the Rams and played the entire game. Philadelphia now plans to turn to him at right tackle. The Eagles are 2-2.
Head coach Nick Sirianni praised parts of Bell’s performance on Monday but pointed out mistakes that still need correction.
Philadelphia next faces the Jacksonville Jaguars in London on Sunday, with Bell in line to make his second start.
