Should the Philadelphia Eagles trade Lane Johnson?
By James Nagle
Eagles tackle Lane Johnson’s been a stud since entering the league but is also one suspension away from being gone for two seasons, so should he be traded?
When Philadelphia Eagles right tackle Lane Johnson was suspended for ten games for illegal use of performance enhancing drugs, pandemonium ensued. A team that once had high hopes had to place their faith in a broken down offensive line. Although Johnson’s suspension didn’t actually begin until week six, it was a scary thought for everyone involved with the Eagles.
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Philadelphia got lucky as fifth-round draft choice Halapoulivaati Vaitai is beginning to look like he can be a starter. The oft-injured Jason Peters seems to have found the fountain of youth and has avoided major injury this season. The Eagles have been okay at tackle despite the early-season panic.
Sure, the offensive line hasn’t always been at its’ best, especially in recent weeks, but that’s mostly due to issues with center Jason Kelce. Starting guards Brandon Brooks and Allen Barbre can’t stay healthy. Vaitai has played well. Despite an awful first game against the Washington Redskins, he’s held his own. He’d certainly still be starting had it not been for a sprained MCL.
When it comes to Johnson, there’s no debating the fact that, at this point, he’s still better than Vaitai. In fact, you could make the case that Johnson is the best right tackle in football. Still, the Eagles offensive line has held their own in his absence. Granted, they’ve been responsible for some awful plays like the game-ending strip sack on Carson Wentz in the Eagles’ most recent loss. Matt Tobin, the Eagles fourth string right tackle, was in the game. Even without Johnson, the offensive line is pretty darn good when healthy.
The reason this Eagles team is losing games isn’t even because of the offensive line. Philadelphia has no legitimate threats at receiver. They have shoddy corners, and there’s no bell-cow at running back. With that said, the Eagles have a first-round pick this year, and are bound to address one of those needs. Although that’ll make the team better, they’ll still have gaping holes.
What The Trade Would Do:
If the Eagles, were to trade Lane Johnson, they may be able to get a first-round and more. Take a look at the Jimmy Graham trade, for example. The Seattle Seahawks traded Max Unger and a first-round pick, for Graham, arguably one of the best receiving threats in the league at the time. Is it unreasonable to think the Eagles could trade Johnson for a first-rounder and a bit more? Any team could start him right away.
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If the Eagles were to follow through with this, the team receiving Johnson, would undoubtedly be getting an elite talent at the right tackle position. If suspended again, Johnson’s gone for two years. Trading him would also save ten million in cap space. By doing this, the Eagles may be able to afford a player like Terrelle Pryor, or Alshon Jeffery. They could also end up with two first-round picks.
Given the fact Johnson just signed a massive extension this off season, the trade is unlikely; however, it may be in the best interest of the team. The Eagles could walk away with two first round picks and have the money to land someone like Pryor. If this trade were to happen, the Eagles could find themselves immediately in contention. It’s worth thinking about.