Eagles Lineman Lane Johnson Out Against Rams for Personal Reasons

A Surprise Absence

The Philadelphia Eagles face a major setback for Sunday's game against the Los Angeles Rams. Lane Johnson, their star right tackle, is inactive due to personal reasons.

This decision came as a surprise. The Eagles announced Johnson was questionable just before releasing their inactive list. He did not appear on the practice report at all during the week.

Offensive Line Depth Tested

Rookie Markel Bell is expected to start at right tackle in his place. This leaves the Eagles incredibly thin on the offensive line. Fred Johnson is already sidelined with a knee injury. Because of this, Philadelphia has no active reserve tackles for the game.

The team did not promote tackle John Ojukwu from the practice squad before Saturday's deadline. This suggests the team believed Johnson would be available earlier in the week. Now, interior linemen Willie Lampkin and Micah Morris are the only backup options on the bench.

Johnson's Career and Future

Johnson is 36 years old and is widely regarded as one of the best tackles in football. He is a six time Pro Bowler and a two time Super Bowl champion. He has also earned first team All Pro honors twice.

Earlier this summer, Johnson missed four training camp practices for personal reasons. When he returned, he revealed that this would likely be his final season in the NFL. He explained that his parents are dealing with health struggles.

"As you get older, things change in your life, priorities," Johnson said at the time. He added that his priorities away from football are starting to merge with his career.

What it means for the next game

Los Angeles Rams at Philadelphia Eagles (NFL, Sun, 04 Oct): Philadelphia Eagles win 35%, Los Angeles Rams win 65%; projected score Philadelphia Eagles 20, Los Angeles Rams 24. Our safest pick: Over 35.5 points.

Philadelphia Eagles at Jacksonville Jaguars (NFL, Sun, 11 Oct): Jacksonville Jaguars win 59%, Philadelphia Eagles win 41%; projected score Jacksonville Jaguars 24, Philadelphia Eagles 19. Our safest pick: Jaguars +4.