6 Eagles Cap Casualty Cuts to Save Millions This Offseason
By Randy Gurzi
4. Fred Johnson, OT
Pre-June 1 Savings: $1.13 million
Pre-June 1 Dead Money: $100,000
Post-June 1 Savings: $1.13 million
Post-June 1 Dead Money: $100,000
The Eagles offensive line could look vastly different this season — even though most of their players are returning. Jason Kelce, who has been the starting center since 2011, is considering retirement. One of the most recognizable centers of all-time, Kelce has become a fan favorite — in the entire NFL not just Philly — due to his sense of humor and relatability.
With him potentially leaving, Cam Jurgens will likely slide to center and that could free up a spot at guard. There won’t be much change at all at tackle but one player who would like to be able to compete for more time is Fred Johnson, an undrafted free agent from Florida in 2019 who has spent time with four teams now.
At just 26 years of age, Johnson has gone from Pittsburgh to Cincinnati to Tampa Bay and finally joined the Eagles in 2023. He signed a reserve/future contract with the team after appearing in 17 games, although that was mostly on special teams.
Philadelphia feels good with Lane Johnson and Jordan Mailata as their starters, and they’re both very durable. The question for Johnson will be whether or not they want to keep him as a swing tackle or free up more than $1 million and allow someone else to compete for the spot.