Lane Johnson’s importance to the Eagles can’t be overstated

As we all know Lane Johnson suffered a torn abductor in the loss versus the Dallas Cowboys on Christmas Eve. As first reported, it was believed the injury he suffered would sideline him for the rest of the regular season and possibly the postseason. Fast forward four days, and Philadelphia Eagles fans can rejoice, even after a heartbreaking loss.

According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, Johnson will avoid surgery for now. He has elected to just rehab his injury for a month before he suits up again for the playoffs. That will prompt surgery after the season. Here’s a quote:

"After consulting with numerous experts, including Dr. William Meyers in Philly Eagles Pro Bowl OT Lane Johnson will put off surgery on his torn adductor to rehab for two to (three) weeks and will play in the playoffs, sources say. Wild."

With that being said, there is more optimism about the Eagles’ immediate future moving forward. Lane Johnson has been an integral part of their team ever since he was drafted by the organization back in 2013.

Lane Johnson, one of the NFL’s best right tackles has long proven his value to the Eagles.

The nine-year veteran has easily become one of the best right tackles in the NFL. His durability during his tenure so far has been insane. Dave Zangaro from NBC Sports Philadelphia had an interesting stat about the durability of Johnson:

"Since the beginning of the 2016 season (including playoffs): Eagles with Lane Johnson: 59-29-1. Without Johnson: 9-21."

That alone tells you how valuable Lane has been to Eagles fans and the organization since he joined the team. Philadelphia has a chance to win the division and secure home field as well as a first-round bye with one win during their final two games. Next up on the schedule is a 6-9 New Orleans Saints team that is still in the playoff hunt in a weak NFC South division.

The Eagles also own New Orleans’ first-round selection during the upcoming 2023 NFL Draft. A win versus this team would do two things for the Eagles:

1. Improve the position of that draft choice. If the season ended today, that would be the tenth-overall selection. A win by Philadelphia would improve their position to secure a higher draft choice.
2. A win would also secure home-field advantage along with the NFC East’s crown and a first-round bye.

So let’s just say there is still plenty left to play for, especially if the Eagles want to rest some key players down the stretch to get ready for a home playoff game and a possible Super Bowl run.