Eagles RT Lane Johnson Returning for 2026 Season

35-year-old veteran offensive lineman to play 14th NFL campaign after mulling retirement.

Feb. 26, 2026 at 9:07pm

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Philadelphia Eagles right tackle Lane Johnson, a two-time first-team All-Pro and six-time Pro Bowl selection, has decided to return for the 2026 NFL season. Johnson, 35, had been considering retirement after missing the final seven games of the 2025 season and the team's NFC wild-card loss due to a Lisfranc injury.

Why it matters

Johnson's return provides stability and leadership to the Eagles' offensive line, which is undergoing some coaching changes this offseason. As a veteran presence, his experience and talent will be crucial for Philadelphia as they look to build on their 2025 playoff appearance.

The details

Johnson told the Philadelphia Inquirer of his plans to return for the 2026 season. He previously dealt with various injuries in his career but started 10 games in 2025 before the Lisfranc injury sidelined him. Johnson has started 168 regular-season games and 15 playoff contests since being drafted 4th overall by the Eagles in 2013.

  • Johnson announced his return plans on February 19, 2026.
  • He missed the final 7 games of the 2025 regular season and the team's NFC wild-card loss due to a Lisfranc injury.

The players

Lane Johnson

A 35-year-old right tackle who has spent his entire 14-year NFL career with the Philadelphia Eagles. He is a two-time first-team All-Pro and six-time Pro Bowl selection.

Nick Sirianni

The head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles, who will be overseeing an offensive line that is undergoing some coaching changes this offseason.

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What’s next

The Eagles will look to build around Johnson's return as they aim to improve on their 2025 playoff appearance and make a deeper postseason run in 2026.

The takeaway

Despite dealing with injuries in recent seasons, the veteran offensive lineman Lane Johnson remains a key part of the Philadelphia Eagles' plans as they look to solidify their offensive line and contend in the NFC in 2026.