Lane Johnson retires from Eagles, citing mental health and family priorities

Lane Johnson announced his retirement from the NFL on Tuesday, October 6, bringing his Philadelphia Eagles career to an end during his 14th season. The 36-year-old right tackle said his mental health and changing family priorities were behind the decision, according to theScore's reporting on his statement. The Eagles also confirmed his retirement on their official website.

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Johnson had wanted to continue for one more season but said reflection had changed his plans. In the statement reported by theScore, he explained that continuing would require complete commitment to his teammates, coaches, the organization and its supporters. He now intends to devote more time to his children and family while focusing on his mental health.

The announcement followed his absence from Sunday's loss to the Los Angeles Rams for personal reasons. His final appearance came against the Chicago Bears on September 28, theScore reported. Philadelphia's account said he had started the opening three games of the season and played every offensive snap in those contests before missing the Rams game.

Johnson had already raised the possibility of retirement during training camp. In an August 8 report for the Eagles, Dave Spadaro detailed how Johnson had discussed the importance of time with his children and the health of his parents after returning from a personal absence. At that stage, Johnson described 2026 as probably his final season, rather than announcing a settled departure date. He also said he still believed he could perform among the league's leading tackles.

Philadelphia selected Johnson fourth overall from Oklahoma in the 2013 draft. The team's retirement announcement credited him with two Super Bowl titles, three NFC championships, five Associated Press All-Pro selections and six Pro Bowl seasons. His contributions extended beyond football: he recorded three holiday albums alongside Jason Kelce and Jordan Mailata to raise money for local charities, and was Philadelphia's 2023 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year nominee.

The Eagles said rookie third-round selection Markel Bell would take over at right tackle after playing the full game against the Rams. Bell is in line to start against Jacksonville in London on Sunday. Head coach Nick Sirianni's assessment, included in the club's report, identified encouraging work on combination blocks and at the second level while acknowledging mistakes that still need correcting.