Longtime Philadelphia Eagles offensive lineman Lane Johnson stunned fans by announcing his retirement on Tuesday.
After missing Sunday’s loss to the Los Angeles Rams due to personal reasons, Johnson revealed he’s retiring to focus on his mental health and family. The six-time Pro Bowl tackle started the first three games of his 14th season with the Eagles.
“I’ve realized that my personal and family priorities in my life have changed,” Johnson wrote in a letter posted on social media. “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.
“At this time, I have made the incredibly difficult decision to retire from the National Football League.”
Fans react to Johnson’s retirement
Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images
Fans responded to Johnson’s bombshell retirement announcement on social media. Eagles supporters congratulated the two-time Super Bowl champion on an exemplary career that should earn him a gold jacket.
“Thank you so much for everything, GOAT,” Jake Rabadi wrote.
“Love you, man. Thanks for everything,” an Eagles fan said.
“Lane Johnson, one of the greatest Right Tackles in NFL history,” former Eagles teammate Emmanuel Acho said. “One of the greatest Philadelphia Eagles in history. One of the toughest dudes, mentally and physically you’ll ever meet. Enjoy retirement brother. The Eagles don’t win those Super Bowls without you.”
“What an awesome career,” Fansided’s Marcus Mosher said. “Legitimately one of the best RTs of all-time.”
“Thank you Lane. Best player in franchise history,” an Eagles fan declared. “First ballot HOFer and most importantly an incredible human being.”
Johnson started 171 regular-season games for the Eagles, who made nine playoff appearances during his career. ESPN researcher Paul Hembekides noted that Philadelphia went 122-63-1 when he played (postseason included) and 18-30 when he didn’t.
“Lane Johnson is an all-time Eagle and one of the best players ever to play his position in NFL history,” Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie said in a statement released by the team. “Lane was a major contributor to our team success for 14 seasons, helping to bring two Super Bowl Championships and many other memorable moments to the organization and the City of Philadelphia.
“… We appreciate everything Lane has contributed to our organization, and we wish him and his family nothing but the best.”
