Rookie Markel Bell Steps In at Right Tackle Following Johnson's Departure
Rookie Markel Bell starts at right tackle for Eagles after Johnson's departure.
Event / Sports
Lane Johnson Retirement
Philadelphia Eagles right tackle Lane Johnson announces retirement after 14 seasons, citing mental health priorities. His departure creates significant changes at the offensive tackle position with rookie Markel Bell taking the starting role.
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2026-10-07 to 2026-10-30 · UTC publication dates
Coverage begins 7 Oct, 00:49 UTC
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What happened
Lane Johnson retires from NFL after 14 seasons with Philadelphia Eagles
Lane Johnson, the Philadelphia Eagles' right tackle, announced his retirement from the NFL on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, after 14 seasons with the franchise. Johnson cited the need to focus on his mental health and family priorities as the primary reason for his decision. He stated: "Right now, it is critical that I focus on my mental health. I owe it to my teammates, coaches, the organization and the fans to have my head and heart 100 percent in the game. And right now my heart is telling me that it's time to say goodbye to football."
Rookie Markel Bell starts at right tackle for Eagles after Johnson absence
Third-round rookie Markel Bell, out of the University of Miami, earned his first NFL start at right tackle for the Philadelphia Eagles in their Week 4 game against the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday, October 4, 2026, in Johnson's absence. Bell is expected to continue in the starting offensive tackle position going forward.
Lane Johnson missed Eagles game before retirement announcement
Lane Johnson was a late scratch from the Philadelphia Eagles' Week 4 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday (October 4, 2026) due to personal reasons. His absence came two days before his retirement announcement, with his personal reasons later revealed to be related to his mental health struggles.
Lane Johnson's Eagles career statistics and achievements
Lane Johnson played all 14 of his NFL seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles, starting 171 regular-season games. He was a six-time Pro Bowl selection and five-time All-Pro (two first-team, three second-team selections). Johnson won two Super Bowl championships with the Eagles and appeared in 15 postseason games throughout his career. Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie stated that Johnson is destined for the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
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2 alternative perspectives
14-Year Philadelphia Eagles Staple Concludes Storied Professional Career
Lane Johnson ends 14-season NFL career with Philadelphia Eagles after significant tenure.