Lane Johnson arrived in Philadelphia as a kid from small-town East Texas. He leaves as a two-time champion and one of the most beloved offensive linemen in Eagles history.
His retirement announcement reflected that journey.
Johnson thanked Jeffrey Lurie and the Eagles organization for taking a chance on him with the fourth selection in the 2013 NFL draft. He thanked the coaches and teammates who became his extended family. Most significantly, he thanked Philadelphia and its fans. The relationship wasn't built exclusively on awards and accolades. Philadelphia fans, media, and even pundits respected Johnson because his career included struggle (PEDs) as well as success (All-Pros). He played through injuries, rebuilt himself following setbacks, and spoke
candidly about his mental health when remaining silent would have been easier.
He also delivered in the moments the city values most.
Johnson helped the Eagles win their first Super Bowl following the 2017 season. He was still anchoring the right side seven years later when Philadelphia won its second and arguably retired as the best right tackle in the NFL when healthy. In his statement, Johnson described riding along Broad Street twice as the ultimate privilege.
The timing of his retirement will be difficult for the Eagles. They are four games into a season and must replace one of the NFL’s best right tackles immediately. But Johnson’s explanation also made clear why stepping away was necessary. His head and heart could no longer be completely devoted to football, and he believed his teammates deserved nothing less. Johnson closed his announcement by saying Philadelphia would always be home and that he would forever be an Eagle.
After 14 seasons, 186 combined regular-season and playoff starts, and two championship parades, there is little doubt about either claim.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Lane Johnson leaves Philadelphia exactly as an Eagle should
