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Philadelphia Eagles enter their NFC Wild Card matchup against the San Francisco 49ers with cautious optimism surrounding the status of veteran right tackle Lane Johnson.
After missing significant time late in the regular season, Johnson’s availability remains one of the most closely monitored storylines ahead of Sunday night’s playoff showdown.
Johnson has been sidelined for six consecutive games due to a Lisfranc injury, an issue that initially appeared close to resolution earlier in the season.
However, as the Eagles prepare for their postseason opener, signs are finally pointing toward a potential return—though nothing has been definitively confirmed.
Johnson’s practice status offers encouragement
Lane Johnson’s presence on the practice field throughout the week has been a major positive for Philadelphia. He logged three straight full practice sessions, including Friday’s workout at the NovaCare Center.
That stretch marked his most sustained on-field activity since suffering the foot injury and raised expectations that he could be back in the lineup against San Francisco.
Despite the encouraging workload, Johnson has been officially listed as questionable. Reports indicate that while his conditioning and participation have improved, lingering foot soreness could push the decision closer to kickoff, making him a true game-time call for the Eagles’ medical and coaching staff.
Eagles near full health enter playoffs
Philadelphia heads into the Wild Card round in strong overall health compared to most playoff teams. The Eagles are expected to have 21 to 22 full-time starters available, with Andrew Mukuba remaining on injured reserve.
Several key contributors, including Landon Dickerson, Grant Calcaterra, Jalen Carter, Dallas Goedert, Nakobe Dean, Marcus Epps, Azeez Ojulari, and Jaelan Phillips, were all full participants in Friday’s practice and are expected to play. Lane Johnson was also among that group, further strengthening the case for his potential return.
The only confirmed absence from Sunday’s lineup is Brett Toth, who has been ruled out due to a concussion.
What happens if Lane Johnson can’t play?
Johnson last appeared in action before missing the final six games of the regular season, including Week 18. If he is ultimately unable to suit up against the 49ers, the Eagles are expected to turn to Fred Johnson to start at right tackle.
While Philadelphia has managed to stay competitive without Lane Johnson, his return would provide a significant boost, especially against a San Francisco front known for applying consistent pressure in high-stakes games.
As kickoff approaches, all eyes will remain on pregame warmups and final injury evaluations.
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