At a Glance
- Lane Johnson will miss the NFC wild-card game after his injured foot swelled on Saturday
- The 35-year-old tackle hasn’t played since Nov. 16 Lisfranc sprain against Detroit
- Fred Johnson makes his eighth consecutive start in relief
- Why it matters: The Eagles are 20 of 22 starters healthy for the playoffs, but Johnson’s absence removes a future Hall of Fame anchor from the line
The Philadelphia Eagles will face the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday without right tackle Lane Johnson, who was declared inactive after swelling returned to his injured foot.
Johnson, 35, has not seen game action since Nov. 16, when he sustained a Lisfranc sprain during the Eagles’ matchup with the Detroit Lions. He returned to practice this week on a limited basis but experienced renewed swelling on Saturday, ending his hopes of suiting up for the NFC wild-card round.
According to News Of Philadelphia, Johnson’s potential return would have provided a major lift. The Eagles have documented a stark difference in performance with Johnson on the field over the past decade. Instead, Fred Johnson will make his eighth straight start at right tackle.
Eagles Inactives
The team released its full list of inactives ahead of kickoff:
- RT Lane Johnson (foot)
- OL Brett Toth (concussion)
- QB Sam Howell (emergency QB)
- RB A.J. Dillon
- DT Ty Robinson
- CB Jakorian Bennett
- OLB Joshua Uche
Toth was ruled out on Saturday after failing to clear the NFL’s concussion protocol. He had suffered the injury against the Commanders in Week 18 and returned to practice this week, but medical clearance did not come in time.
Roster Moves
The Eagles elevated two players from the practice squad on Saturday:
- Long snapper Charley Hughlett
- Defensive back Andre’ Sam
Both are active for the contest.
Health Check
Philadelphia enters the postseason with 20 of its 22 opening-day starters available. Aside from Johnson, the only other starter missing is rookie safety Drew Mukuba, who fractured his ankle in late November against Dallas. Veteran Marcus Epps has stepped in and provided stability to the secondary.
49ers Inactives
San Francisco will be without:
- WR Ricky Pearsall
- Multiple backup linebackers (names not specified)
The 49ers’ inactive list is shorter, but the absence of Pearsall removes a depth option in the passing game.
Key Takeaways
- Johnson’s foot setback denies the Eagles a potential emotional and tactical boost.
- Fred Johnson’s continuity at right tackle limits disruption, but the drop-off in pedigree is significant.
- Philadelphia’s overall health remains strong, with only two starters sidelined.
- Special teams gain experience with Hughlett’s promotion, and Sam adds depth to the defensive backfield.
