Lane Johnson makes stunning midseason retirement announcement

IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Lane Johnson makes stunning midseason retirement announcement

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports
By Matt Wadleigh | Last updated Oct 6, 2026 4:58 PM ET

Philadelphia Eagles star offensive lineman Lane Johnson is calling it a career in the midst of his 14th season in the NFL.

Just two days after the Eagles’ Week 4 loss to the Los Angeles Rams, Johnson announced his retirement in a lengthy message on social media.

Here is part of what Johnson said.

“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.”

Thank you. https://t.co/up2kH1K40p
— Lane Johnson (@LaneJohnson65) October 6, 2026

Johnson returned for his 14th season, but the six-time Pro Bowler said in August that this would likely be his final campaign in the NFL.

Johnson played college football at Oklahoma, and he was selected at No. 4 overall by the Eagles in 2013 and spent his entire career in Philadelphia.

Lane Johnson missed the Week 4 game due to personal reasons, and he also missed a week of training camp over the summer.

Lane Johnson missed the early portion of training camp for personal reasons. The #Eagles RT later referenced his aging parents when he returned and was asked why he missed several practices. He also announced that this was likely to be his last season.
— Jeff McLane (@Jeff_McLane) October 4, 2026