Philadelphia Eagles offensive tackle Lane Johnson made clear over the weekend that he intends to play one more season before stepping away from the NFL, providing some certainty after earlier speculation about his future.

The 36-year-old veteran returned for the team’s first practice of the offseason and addressed reporters afterward. Johnson, who has spent his entire career with the Eagles since being drafted in the first round in 2013, left little doubt about his plans for 2026.

“The plan was always to come back,” Johnson said. “As far as stuff off the field, my mom is struggling with some health stuff–my dad–I mean, that’s really it. A lot of time away, and when some things come up like that it puts things into what matters. I’m here, my team has supported me, and I’m where I need to be. I’ve had those conversations with my family members [about retirement]. You can’t play forever. Not everybody can do what LeBron James is doing. I am 36, so it’s weird to say, but all of the support and all of the love here–I plan on having a really good last year.”

Johnson’s comments mark what appears to be the final chapter of a distinguished career that has included multiple Pro Bowl selections and a Super Bowl title. Barring an unexpected change of heart similar to the one former teammate Brandon Graham experienced in the past, the veteran right tackle is expected to hang up his cleats after the upcoming campaign.

Team officials and coaches have already begun preparing for life after Johnson by giving extended opportunities to younger players along the offensive line. One of those players drawing particular attention is rookie Markel Bell, who has seen significant snaps during Johnson’s limited participation in early workouts.

During the same media session, Johnson spoke highly of Bell and the traits that could make the newcomer a strong fit for the Eagles’ offensive scheme in the years ahead.

“He’s one of the best rookies I’ve been around. Just as far as being in the playbook, no complaining. Haven’t heard him complain one time,” Johnson said of Bell. “He’s always asking questions. Just a really mature young man who handles stuff off the field well. He’s just always asking questions. You can tell he was coached up well at Miami. Yeah, man, when I see a guy with that size and that ability and that wing span and movement, you can have a lot of success in this business.”

Bell, 22, grew up in Cleveland, Mississippi, and began his college career at Holmes Community College before transferring to the University of Miami for the 2024 and 2025 seasons. The Eagles selected him in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft with the 68th overall pick, viewing him as a developmental prospect with the physical tools to eventually start at tackle.

At 6-foot-6 and more than 300 pounds, Bell possesses the length and athleticism that NFL coaches covet in offensive linemen. Johnson noted that those attributes, combined with a strong work ethic and willingness to learn, position the rookie well for long-term success if he continues to develop.

The Eagles’ coaching staff has used the early stages of the offseason program to evaluate Bell extensively while Johnson manages his workload and focuses on family matters. That approach allows the organization to gather information on how seamlessly the younger player can absorb the playbook and adjust to the speed of the professional game.

Johnson has long been regarded as one of the premier right tackles in the league, known for his combination of power, technique and consistency in protecting the quarterback’s blind side. His presence has been a cornerstone of Philadelphia’s offensive line for more than a decade, helping the team remain competitive through multiple coaching changes and roster overhauls.

With Johnson now publicly stating his intention to make 2026 his final season, the Eagles gain clarity on their long-term planning at the position. That certainty could influence decisions in free agency and future drafts as the front office builds depth and identifies the next generation of starters.

Bell’s progress this summer will be closely monitored by scouts and analysts who see him as a potential long-term solution. If the rookie continues to impress in practice and meetings, he could enter the 2027 season as the frontrunner to replace Johnson on the right side of the line.

For now, Johnson remains focused on delivering a strong performance in what he expects to be his last year. He has emphasized gratitude for the support he has received from teammates, coaches and the organization during personal challenges involving his parents’ health.

Eagles fans who have watched Johnson anchor the offensive line through good seasons and tough ones will likely appreciate the veteran’s willingness to return for one more campaign. His leadership in the locker room and on the practice field continues to set an example for younger players like Bell.

As the team moves through the remainder of the offseason and into training camp, all eyes will remain on how Johnson finishes his career and how quickly Bell can close the gap.

The transition at right tackle appears to be underway in an orderly fashion, guided in part by the veteran himself.