Philadelphia Eagles fans are still in the dark on their legendary right tackle, Lane Johnson, after his latest health update on his foot gave no clarity on his status.
Per The Athletic's Zach Berman, "Lane Johnson is questionable with a foot injury. He was limited in practice all week. Johnson did not meet with reporters this week, so no on-record word on how he feels from him."
Johnson hasn't played since a 16-9 win over the Detroit Lions on November 16 after suffering a Lisfranc injury, but he was back at practice this past week. Still, there's not much to go by. Since he didn't undergo surgery on his foot, the typical timetable for his return is three to six months.
Playing on Sunday would put Johnson well ahead of that timetable. A veteran and franchise legend like Johnson, who may not have much time left, is more likely to suit up than not. Still, it's worrisome that there hasn't been a declaration on it just yet.
Lane Johnson May Have to Accept Retirement Reality Soon
Before Philly's Super Bowl LIX win over the Kansas City Chiefs, Johnson spoke of retirement like he knew it was coming, but he would only consider it if his health declined.
"I'm definitely not retiring after this game, win or lose," Johnson said last February. "I'm definitely playing next year. That's really how you take it I guess when you get up in age, is take it one year at a time. But physically, I feel a lot better than I have the past, probably, couple years. I feel really good. For being this late in the year, it's usually not like that. I'm thankful. We've got a good team here to help us with all that."
Well, unfortunately, Johnson's health declined. If his future is determined by how he feels, he may not be long for pro football. Johnson will be 36 in May. After 12 years, he'd be forgiven for not letting the wear and tear take a toll on his post-playing life.
It's hard for players to give up the game, but in the trenches, you oftentimes don't have a choice. With Johnson's health where it is, any game could be his last. Lisfranc injuries make other injuries likelier and can cause long-term problems if not correctly treated.
Nonetheless, Johnson is battling is get back on the field and give this team their anchor back on the right side. Him not speaking to the media ahead of the game does make things a little harder to read, as there's no first hand comments on how he feels.
Regardless, getting back on the field for practice was a great first step but fans will be watching closely on how he performs against the 49ers.
There being such silence may or may not be as bad as every Eagles fan is thinking it is.