Lane Johnson Eyes Longevity as He Marks 12 Years in NFL
As Lane Johnson embarks on his 12th year in the NFL, the Philadelphia Eagles' right tackle remains a cornerstone of both the team's offense and its locker room. With an impressive resume that includes five Pro Bowl selections and two First Team All-Pro honors, Johnson’s impact on the field is undeniable. At 325 pounds, he’s a formidable presence on the offensive line, consistently neutralizing top pass rushers such as Nick Bosa and Montez Sweat.
Last season, Johnson was an indomitable force in pass protection, allowing only 29 pressures over 547 pass-blocking snaps. This translates to a pressure rate of just 5.3% per dropback, underscoring his elite performance. His durability and consistency earned him Second Team All-Pro honors, adding another accolade to his storied career.
Plans for the Future
Despite already achieving so much, Johnson’s focus remains sharp as he contemplates the future. “I’m thinking two to three more years, realistically. But we’ll see,” he says, leaving the door open for extending his career even further. Johnson’s current contract with the Eagles runs through the 2026 season, by which time he will be 36 years old.
While Johnson acknowledges the physical toll of the game, he is inspired by NFL veterans like Andrew Whitworth and Jason Peters, who continued playing well into their late 30s. “I think physically I can do what Whitworth and JP did. I think I can play til 40,” Johnson affirms, displaying the mentality of an athlete who isn’t ready to hang up his cleats just yet.
Personal Motivations
Balancing professional ambitions with personal responsibilities is a challenge Johnson does not take lightly. “What weighs on my mind is my kids are getting older, my dad is getting older. He had some health issues,” he shares. The dual responsibilities of being a dedicated player and a caring family man influence his outlook on the remaining years of his career. “Those are things that weigh on my mind. But at least, two, three, four good years.”
Team Dynamics
The camaraderie within the Eagles' offensive line is another significant factor in Johnson's sustained success. The unit boasts some of the biggest linemen in the league, with Mekhi Becton, Landon Dickerson, and Jordan Mailata all tipping the scales at over 330 pounds. “Mekhi’s a big man, so I feel small. I can’t imagine how Cam [Jurgens] feels, so it’s a good thing,” Johnson remarks with a laugh, highlighting the light-hearted but competitive spirit among his teammates.
Communication remains a linchpin for the Eagles' offensive line, and Johnson is a key figure in this regard. “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 notes, emphasizing the importance of seamless teamwork.
Learning from Past Mistakes
Johnson's determination to avoid past pitfalls also drives his relentless work ethic. Reflecting on a disappointing memory, he states, “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.” This insight into Johnson's mindset demonstrates his commitment to continuous improvement, both individually and as a team leader.
As he continues to anchor the Eagles’ offensive line, Lane Johnson remains a paragon of excellence and resilience. His physical prowess, combined with his deep understanding of the game and unyielding dedication to his craft, ensure that he will remain a vital part of the Eagles' success for years to come.