Eagles' Johnson ruled out against Lions with foot injury; Fred Johnson to start

The Philadelphia Eagles will face the Detroit Lions without their star right tackle, Lane Johnson, who has been ruled out due to a foot injury.

Why it matters: Johnson's absence significantly impacts the Eagles' offensive line, which is crucial for protecting quarterback Jalen Hurts and establishing a running game.

• As a five-time All-Pro and six-time Pro Bowler, Johnson’s experience and skill level are pivotal in maintaining the Eagles’ high-powered offense.
• His ability to neutralize defensive ends is particularly vital in a matchup against the Lions, known for their aggressive pass rush.

What’s new: Lane Johnson exited the game against the Lions in the first quarter after a play involving Saquon Barkley.

• After his exit, Johnson was seen walking slowly indoors following a brief visit to the medical tent, raising concerns about the severity of his injury.
• This follows a challenging season for Johnson, as he has dealt with multiple injuries, including a previous left ankle injury that limited his performance against the Green Bay Packers.

By the numbers: Johnson came into the game with an impressive 0.0 knockdown percentage, indicating he had not allowed any sacks or quarterback hits throughout the season.

• His effectiveness on the line has contributed to the Eagles’ ability to rank among the league leaders in both passing and rushing yards.

Yes, but: The Eagles will look to Fred Johnson, who will step in as Johnson's replacement.

• While Fred Johnson lacks the same pedigree as Lane, he has experience that could prove beneficial in this situation.
• The coaching staff will need to adjust their scheme to account for the change, potentially opting for quicker passes to mitigate any pressure from the Lions’ defense.

What to watch: The impact of Johnson's absence will be closely monitored as the game unfolds, particularly in how it affects the Eagles’ pass protection.

• Fans and analysts will be keen to see how well the offensive line can adapt and whether the offensive play-calling shifts to compensate for the loss of one of its key players.

The bottom line: Lane Johnson’s injury presents a significant challenge for the Eagles as they prepare to take on a formidable Lions team.

• The effectiveness of the offensive line will be critical in determining the outcome of this matchup, making Johnson's recovery a focal point for the team moving forward.