Lane Johnson retires, ending 14-season NFL career with Eagles

Why it's trending

Lane Johnson announced his retirement from the NFL on Tuesday, a day after he was a surprise inactive for Philadelphia's game against the Los Angeles Rams. The team reportedly did not know until that morning that Johnson would not play. He posted a statement on social media saying his personal and family priorities have changed and that he needs to focus on his mental health. He is 36.

Johnson had been weighing retirement all offseason. He missed four training camp practices for personal reasons and said in August this would likely be his last season, pointing to his parents' health issues and wanting more time with his oldest child, who is 13.

What we know

Johnson was Philadelphia's fourth overall pick out of Oklahoma in 2013. Over 14 seasons he made six Pro Bowls and earned first-team All-Pro honors twice, and he helped the Eagles win both Super Bowl titles in franchise history. The Eagles went 122-63-1 in games Johnson started, compared to 18-30 when he was out of the lineup.

Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie said in a statement that Johnson maintained an elite level of play across multiple coaching staffs and called him a truly unique player, adding he believes Johnson will one day be named to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Johnson also became known as one of the top mental health advocates in sports during his run in Philadelphia, speaking openly about dealing with anxiety and depression.

What's not known yet, and what's next

The Eagles have not named a permanent plan at right tackle. Rookie Markel Bell started in Johnson's place against the Rams and is considered the most likely option to keep the job for the rest of the season. Philadelphia is 2-2.

Johnson's full statement and the exact timeline of his decision beyond what he described in his social media post have not been detailed further. There is no word yet on any formal team event or ceremony tied to the retirement.

Facts per ESPN. Opinion is the taproom's.