As a 2019 undrafted free agent, Fred Johnson has been through the NFL grinder, but as the Eagles head into Week 18, he’s sitting in a much better position. Johnson has stepped into the starting role with future Hall of Famer Lane Johnson sidelined, and it appears he’s earned himself a well-deserved break this year.
With Fred Johnson most likely being a healthy "scratch" in Week 18, media members asked Johnson about seeing several of the younger guys playing this week:
“Being a guy who has been waived and cut, this is a chance for a lot of guys to step up - the standard is not changing for whoever is in playing.”
Fred Johnson understands the situation for the Eagles' backups
Johnson has been in the NFL for seven years, earning $6,924,197 million across 78 games with 21 starts. While Johnson has had plenty of success over the past several years, it's also worth noting he's been cut four times in his NFL career, and he's only found stability since 2023. With many of his teammates getting an opportunity to play and showcase their skills, Johnson is fully supportive of the Eagles' reserves, especially since he's been in their position before.
While fans may view Week 18 as "meaningless football" for players in the NFL, there is no such thing. In Week 18, many athletes are unknowingly playing their final games, with it being the last chance to showcase their skills. With the highly competitive nature of the NFL, athletes like Johnson can either make or break their careers by "cashing in" on their Week 18 opportunity.
This week, several younger Eagles will finally have their chance to earn significant playing time after spending much of the season on the sideline. Led by third-year quarterback Tanner McKee, who has played 114 career snaps, Will Shipley, Drew Kendall, Mac McWilliams, and Brandon Johnson are some players looking to make an impact, showing they belong on the Eagles and in the NFL in general.
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With the NFL often being described as not for long, players like Johnson should be able to relay the importance of a Week 18 spot start to Philadelphia's younger players as the Eagles look to remain healthy for their 2025 playoff push.