Lane Johnson Celebrates 12 Years in NFL
As Lane Johnson marks his 12th year in the NFL, his legacy as one of the premier right tackles in the league continues to grow. The Philadelphia Eagles standout has been a cornerstone of the team, earning accolades and respect both on and off the field.
Johnson, now 33, has been a pivotal player for the Eagles. He has been selected to the Pro Bowl five times, a testament to his consistent performance and dominance in his position. Adding to his impressive resume, Johnson has twice been named First Team All-Pro, further solidifying his place among the elite players in the league.
Despite being in the league for over a decade, Johnson remains a formidable force on the field. Last season, over 547 pass-blocking snaps, he allowed only 29 pressures, maintaining a pressure rate per dropback of just 5.3%. His stellar performance earned him Second Team All-Pro honors, showcasing his ability to maintain elite play year after year.
"I'm thinking two to three more years, realistically. But we'll see," Johnson said, reflecting on his future in the league. His current contract with the Eagles extends until the 2026 season, at which point he will be 36 years old. Yet, Johnson seems to believe he has more left in the tank, potentially eyeing a longer career. "I think physically I can do what [Andrew] Whitworth and JP [Jason Peters] did. I think I can play til 40."
Maintaining top physical condition is crucial in securing longevity in the NFL, and Johnson, who weighs 325 pounds, is in good company among his formidable teammates. Mekhi Becton, Landon Dickerson, and Jordan Mailata each tip the scales at over 330 pounds, creating a robust offensive line that has protected quarterbacks and paved the way for running backs with relentless efficiency.
Johnson's impact goes beyond just his physical abilities; his leadership and experience play a vital role in the team’s 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," said Johnson, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and communication in the Eagles' offensive line dynamics.
His effectiveness on the field is highlighted by his success against some of the league’s top defensive talents. In three combined meetings, Johnson has successfully neutralized opponents like Nick Bosa and Montez Sweat, showcasing his skill and resilience against some of the fiercest pass rushers in the game.
Off the field, Johnson remains grounded and aware of the ticking clock, not just on his career but on personal matters that weigh heavily 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 shared candidly. Such reflections naturally influence his thoughts about the future. "Those are things that weigh on my mind. But at least, two, three, four good years."
Despite the successes and accolades, Johnson remains focused on improving and 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," Johnson remarked, hinting at the continuous quest for excellence and refinement in his game.
In the twilight years of his career, Johnson still feels the drive and physical capability to compete at the highest level, drawing inspiration from veteran players who extended their careers well into their late thirties and beyond. "Mekhi's a big man, so I feel small. I can't imagine how Cam [Jurgens] feels, so it's a good thing," Johnson joked, underscoring the light-hearted camaraderie that helps buoy the rigorous demands of an NFL player’s life.
As Lane Johnson continues his storied career, he remains a vital asset to the Philadelphia Eagles, combining strength, skill, and leadership in a way that elevates those around him. His journey is a testament to hard work, resilience, and the enduring spirit of a true NFL great. Whether he plays for a few more years or extends his career into his forties, Johnson's influence on the game will be remembered for years to come.