The Philadelphia Eagles are making another change during their Week 10 bye.
Philadelphia is releasing veteran offensive tackle Fred Johnson, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. The move removes an experienced reserve from an offensive line that has undergone significant changes during the Eagles’ 2-7 start. Johnson, 29, returned on a one-year contract this offseason. His history with Philadelphia includes a brief departure for Jacksonville before the Eagles reacquired him in a trade ahead of the 2025 season.
The #Eagles are releasing veteran OT Fred Johnson, source says. He's been with the team since 2023.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 13, 2026
Fred Johnson’s departure changes Eagles’ tackle depth
Johnson has served primarily as a reserve this season, with rookie Markel Bell handling the starting assignment at right tackle opposite
Jordan Mailata. Philadelphia’s Week 9 depth chart listed Johnson behind Bell.
His departure creates another question about the Eagles’ protection options. Philadelphia has allowed 30 sacks through nine games, including seven in Joe Milton’s first start against the Giants. Those breakdowns extend beyond one position, but the Eagles need dependable alternatives when injuries or performance require a change.
Releasing Johnson does not establish who will inherit his responsibilities. Philadelphia could turn to another player already in the organization or make an additional move, but Rapoport’s report did not identify a corresponding transaction. For Bell, the remaining eight games continue to represent an important evaluation period. The third-round pick has received substantial playing time, and Philadelphia needs that experience to translate into more consistent execution.
Eagles continue adjusting roster during the bye
The Johnson report follows news that veteran receiver Hollywood Brown requested his release and reached a non-injury settlement with Philadelphia. The Eagles also traded defensive tackle Jordan Davis to Jacksonville earlier in the week. Those departures affect different parts of the roster, but each changes the personnel available when Philadelphia returns against Pittsburgh on Nov. 22.
For now, the immediate consequence is the loss of another veteran option. The Eagles still have to protect Milton, establish a more dependable running game, and determine which offensive linemen can contribute beyond this season. Johnson’s reported release adds another decision to that evaluation without answering how Philadelphia intends to replace his depth.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Eagles to release veteran tackle Fred Johnson as roster changes continue
