Philadelphia Eagles offensive lineman Lane Johnson announced his retirement from the NFL on Tuesday, ending a 14-year career to focus on his mental health and family. Johnson, a six-time Pro Bowl selection and two-time Super Bowl champion, cited changing personal priorities and the need to prioritise his wellbeing as reasons behind his decision.
“I have given it my all for 14 years,” Johnson said in a statement. “Season after season pushing my body to the max and tirelessly working my craft to not only live up to the legacy of the guys that came before me, but to set a new standard of success for the best franchise in all of sports.”
Johnson, 36, was a first-round pick in 2013 and quickly established himself as a cornerstone at right tackle for the Eagles. He earned first-team All-Pro honours in 2017 and 2022 and was named second-team All-Pro in 2021, 2023, and 2024. His contributions helped Philadelphia secure two Super Bowl victories during his tenure.
Last week, Johnson was a late scratch from the Eagles’ game against the Los Angeles Rams for personal reasons. Earlier this season, he missed time in training camp, suggesting the 2024 campaign would likely be his last. Now, he has confirmed his retirement, explaining that his “personal and family priorities” have shifted.
Johnson’s struggles with mental health have been public in recent years. During the 2021 season, he took a leave of absence to address anxiety and depression. Since then, he has shared his experience at mental health clinics in the Philadelphia area, advocating for awareness and support.
“Right now, it is critical that I focus on my mental health,” Johnson said. “I owe it to my teammates, coaches, the organisation 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.”
Last season, Johnson missed Philadelphia’s final seven regular-season games and the wild-card playoff loss to the San Francisco 49ers due to injuries. He has said his decision to retire came after conversations with his family and reflecting on an injury-plagued season.
Johnson’s departure leaves a significant gap in the Eagles’ offensive line as they look ahead to future campaigns. The club has not yet announced how they will fill the void left by his exit.
His retirement closes the chapter on a career that combined high-level performance with openness about mental health challenges, an area still often overlooked in professional sports. Johnson’s voice on the subject has resonated beyond the field, adding to ongoing conversations about athlete wellbeing.
The Eagles acknowledged Johnson’s announcement but have yet to release an official statement detailing the implications for the team roster or coaching plans.
According to Yahoo Sports.