Eagles Expect Lane Johnson to Return in 2026, Dickerson's Future Unclear

ESPN's Adam Schefter provides update on veteran offensive linemen ahead of free agency

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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ESPN insider Adam Schefter reported that the Philadelphia Eagles expect veteran right tackle Lane Johnson to return for the 2026 NFL season, but the future of guard Landon Dickerson remains uncertain. Johnson, a six-time Pro Bowler, is set to turn 36 in May, but Schefter believes he will be back with the team next year. However, Schefter was less definitive on Dickerson, who has dealt with injuries throughout his career but has been a key part of the Eagles' offensive line in recent seasons.

Why it matters

The Eagles' offensive line has been a strength of the team in recent years, helping the franchise reach the Super Bowl twice in the last four seasons. Johnson's potential return would provide stability at a critical position, while Dickerson's status could have major implications for the unit's performance in 2026 and beyond.

The details

Johnson missed several games due to injury in the 2025 season, and the Eagles struggled without him, going 3-4 in those contests. The team's longtime offensive line coach, Jeff Stoutland, also departed in January, making Johnson's presence even more important. Dickerson, a three-time Pro Bowler, has dealt with injuries throughout his career but has been a standout when healthy, becoming the highest-paid guard in the NFL just two years ago.

  • Johnson will turn 36 years old in May 2026.
  • On February 7, 2026, ESPN's Dan Graziano reported that both Johnson and Dickerson were considering retirement this offseason.

The players

Lane Johnson

A 13-year veteran offensive tackle for the Philadelphia Eagles, Johnson has made six Pro Bowls and five All-Pro teams, including first-team selections in 2017 and 2022.

Landon Dickerson

A 27-year-old guard for the Philadelphia Eagles, Dickerson has made three consecutive Pro Bowls from 2022-2024 and became the highest-paid guard in the NFL with a four-year, $84 million contract two years ago.

Adam Schefter

An ESPN NFL insider who provided the update on Johnson and Dickerson's futures with the Eagles.

Jeff Stoutland

The longtime offensive line coach for the Philadelphia Eagles, who departed the team in January 2026.

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What they’re saying

“I do expect that Lane Johnson will be back; I have heard the Landon Dickerson conversation [on potential retirement]. I don't know how real it is or isn't. But I'd be surprised if Lane Johnson isn't back.”

— Adam Schefter, ESPN NFL Insider (97.5 The Fanatic)

What’s next

The Eagles will need to determine Landon Dickerson's status for the 2026 season, as his potential retirement could have a significant impact on the team's offensive line.

The takeaway

The Eagles' offensive line has been a strength of the team in recent years, and the potential return of veteran tackle Lane Johnson would provide stability at a critical position. However, the future of guard Landon Dickerson remains uncertain, and his status could have major implications for the unit's performance in 2026 and beyond.