Lane Johnson Calls It a Career: Eagles All-Pro Right Tackle Retires After 14 Seasons

One of the most decorated linemen of his era is walking away. Lane Johnson, the Philadelphia Eagles' six-time Pro Bowl right tackle, announced Tuesday that he is retiring from the NFL after 14 seasons, all spent in midnight green. The decision came just two days after Johnson was a surprise inactive for Sunday's 24-20 loss to the Los Angeles Rams for personal reasons. The 36-year-old said in a social media statement that he had hoped to give the Eagles one final season, but that his family priorities had changed and his heart was telling him it was time. Johnson's career credentials are first-ballot worthy: drafted fourth overall in 2013, he started 171 regular-season games, earned first-team All-Pro honors twice, and anchored the offensive line for two Super Bowl championships. The retirement had been building. Johnson missed four training camp practices in August for personal reasons and said then that 2026 would likely be his last year, citing his aging parents' health and wanting time with his children. He previously took a leave during the 2021 season while battling anxiety and depression, and has since become a respected advocate for mental health awareness. Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie paid tribute in a statement, calling Johnson an all-time Eagle and one of the best ever at his position, and predicting a Pro Football Hall of Fame induction. The 2-2 Eagles now move forward without their cornerstone, with rookie Markell Bell — who started Sunday in Johnson's absence — expected to take over at right tackle.