Lane Johnson: A Pillar of Consistency and Excellence in the NFL

As the 2024 NFL season unfolds, Lane Johnson, the seasoned right tackle for the Philadelphia Eagles, continues to demonstrate why he is considered one of the premier players in his position. Entering his twelfth season, Johnson’s performance remains consistently stellar, reinforcing his legacy as a key component of the Eagles’ offensive line.

Drafted in the first round by the Eagles in 2013, Johnson’s career is marked by significant accolades, including four All-Pro selections and five Pro Bowl appearances. His continued success on the field stems from a combination of size, athleticism, work ethic, and football intelligence, with a focus on coachability.

«On top of the fact that he’s so talented and so quick, he uses the technique that he’s been taught, and it’s all over the film,» said Jeff Stoutland, the Eagles’ Run Game Coordinator and Offensive Line Coach. «Not only is he physically freakish, he’s technically sound. Together with those two things, I don’t know who’s better.»

The offensive line, with Johnson at the helm, has played a crucial role in the Eagles’ success, particularly in leading the NFL in rushing. Johnson’s stats further highlight his dominance: he is currently ranked as the No. 4 overall tackle by Pro Football Focus and has not allowed a sack in 267 pass block snaps this season. His run-blocking grade of 84.2 is his highest since 2019.

According to NFL Next Gen Stats, Johnson has improved upon an already impressive 2023 season. His pressure rate has decreased from 10.2% in 2023 to 5.8% this season, the lowest since at least 2018 when Next Gen Stats began tracking these metrics.

Teammates and coaches alike speak to Johnson’s relentless pursuit of consistency as a hallmark of his greatness. «Consistency is key. Consistency is everything to be great at this position,» stated left tackle Jordan Mailata. «Lane embodies that with his playing style, with his determination, his work ethic. Consistency is your biggest foe [when] you’re chasing greatness.»

Johnson’s influence extends to his peers, including Mekhi Becton, who credits Johnson with enhancing his performance at the right guard position. «He helps me on the play calls. He helps me see things that I wouldn’t see,» acknowledged Becton. «He uplifts me. He supports me. He’s like a big brother I never had.»

In reflecting on his prolonged excellence, Johnson attributes his success to a rigorous routine and a focus on continuous improvement. «I’ve got a routine. I stick to it,» Johnson remarked. «Every year I try to evaluate how the season goes and stuff I need to work on and attack my weaknesses. That’s really it. I stay consistent with my routine.»

As Johnson changes into civilian clothes after another practice, the question persists: How does he maintain such a high level of play in his twelfth year? His consistency and discipline, paired with unique physical and technical skills, keep him at the pinnacle of his profession, making him an indispensable asset to the Eagles’ offense. Johnson stands as a testament to enduring excellence in professional football, with no signs of slowing down.