Philadelphia Eagles: Who will start opposite of Lane Johnson in 2018?

Both Lane Johnson and Halapoulivaati Vaitai showed that they can take on any challenge during the playoffs.

When the 2018 season starts, Lane Johnson will start on the right side Week One. Halapoulivaati Vaitai might not get the opportunity to protect the blindside of the Philadelphia Eagles‘ starting quarterback. While a lot depends on Jason Peters‘ health, a lot also depends on the money that he’s going to command.

Over the next two seasons, Peters will count for approximately $10.6 million each season according to Spotrac. For a starting left tackle, that’s not exorbitant money. When it comes to Vaitai however, his cap hit over the next two seasons won’t exceed $800,000.

Here’s something else to think about.

The more important number as it pertains to Vaitai and Peters is 16 to 166. That is the difference in starts over each players’ career. Over Vaitai’s last four starts however, he’s proven to be up to the task of protecting his quarterback’s blind side. He’s also only 24 years old.

Enter Howie Roseman.

More from Inside the Iggles

Executive vice president of football operations Howie Roseman has always been shrewd when it comes to financial decisions. Loyalty, as nice of a trait as it is, extends only so far nowadays. Peters contributed towards the Eagles’ Super Bowl run. He also earned the ring that he, and the rest of the team, will inevitably receive. The problem is: You can’t re-sign everyone.

Is it time to think about the future?

When it comes to Peters, it’s safe to say that Eagles fans everywhere appreciate his effort over the last nine seasons. Peters started by protecting Donovan McNabb‘s blind side. He continued by protecting Michael Vick, Nick Foles and Carson Wentz. We as fans are certainly appreciative of his efforts.

Having said that though, one could imagine that the Eagles could draft their future left tackle this season, while allowing “Big V” to take over the left side of the offensive line. All without keeping Peters on the roster. After all, despite his struggles at times, Vaitai controlled Everson Griffen in the NFC Championship game and did his best against James Harrison and company in the Super Bowl.

Next: 14 Eagles who could potentially become free agents

While the name starting at left tackle for the Eagles might come down to Vaitai or Peters, it’s safe to say that Johnson will be manning the right side for the foreseeable future. Given his contract situation moving forward after his suspension, it’s a bonafide perk for the Eagles. One thing is safe to say, and that is Johnson will never ever, ever, ever get traded.

Home/Eagles News