Philadelphia – The Philadelphia Eagles entered Sunday’s home contest against the Los Angeles Rams without veteran All‑Pro right tackle Lane Johnson. Johnson, who was initially marked as questionable due to personal reasons, was officially ruled inactive about 90 minutes before kickoff.
Impact on the offensive line
Johnson’s absence leaves the Eagles without six starters on the field: wide receiver DeVonta Smith, tight end Dallas Goedert, left guard Landon Dickerson, linebacker Zack Baun and safety Marcus Epps, in addition to Johnson himself. Rookie tackle Markel Bell was called upon to fill the right tackle spot for the first time this season.
Johnson, 36, has been a cornerstone of Philadelphia’s offensive line since being selected fourth overall in the 2013 draft. He is a two‑time Super Bowl champion, a two‑time first‑team All‑Pro and a six‑time Pro Bowl selection. Over his career, Johnson has started 171 games, including all three contests this season before today’s decision.
Retirement speculation
Earlier this summer, Johnson hinted that the 2026 campaign could be his final year, citing family priorities and his parents’ health as key considerations. The speculation follows a 2025 season in which he missed the final seven regular‑season games and the NFC wild‑card loss to the San Francisco 49ers after suffering a Lisfranc injury.
While the Eagles have not confirmed any retirement plans, the veteran’s recent inactivity adds to the conversation surrounding his future in the league.
Rams also missing key players
The Los Angeles Rams, who sit at 1‑2, also listed several players as inactive for the contest, including star defensive end Aaron Donald, tight end Colby Parkinson, cornerbacks Cam Lampkin and Jaylen Watson, offensive lineman Bill Murray, wide receiver C.J. Daniels and emergency third‑string quarterback Ty Simpson.
Both teams will look to adjust their lineups and game plans in response to the missing personnel, making Sunday’s matchup a test of depth and coaching adjustments.
Looking ahead
The Eagles remain 2‑1 on the season and will aim to stay competitive in the NFC East despite the injuries and absences. Fans will be watching closely to see how Markel Bell performs in his first start at right tackle and whether Johnson’s situation signals a broader shift in the roster as the season progresses.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
