Lane Johnson Return Timeline: Will the Eagles RT Be Back in Week 15?

The Philadelphia Eagles will remain without right tackle Lane Johnson in the Black Friday matchup against the Chicago Bears, extending his absence to a second straight game. Johnson suffered a Lisfranc injury in the Week 11 win over the Detroit Lions and has not practiced since.

Team officials ruled him out for Week 13 after three days of missed practice. Reports now suggest the veteran could be closer to returning than initially expected, giving the Eagles a clearer recovery window.

Latest on Lane Johnson’s Return Timeline

Johnson was originally projected to miss four to six weeks after the foot injury. The estimate came from reporting by NFL Network journalists who noted the nature of the Lisfranc issue. Many believed this would lead to Johnson being placed on injured reserve, which requires a minimum four-game absence.

However, the team kept him off injured reserve. According to the Philadelphia Enquirer, Johnson does not need surgery, and that improvement offers a faster path back. The decision signals confidence that he can return within four games instead of six.

Heading into the Bears game on November 28, Johnson had missed Week 12 and Week 13. NFL Network reported before kickoff that Johnson is now targeting a Week 15 return against the Las Vegas Raiders. That timeline aligns with the updated medical outlook and the team’s choice not to place him on injured reserve.

Johnson remains a key piece of Philadelphia’s offensive structure. He anchors the right side of the line and provides stability for the passing and running game. His absence has forced depth players into bigger roles and required the offense to adjust protection schemes.

If he returns in Week 15, the Eagles regain a major advantage heading into a critical stretch of December games. The team is still competing for top positioning in the NFC, and Johnson’s availability could play a decisive role.

How the Eagles Are Adapting Without Johnson

The Eagles have rotated backups at right tackle as Johnson recovers. Shorter drops, quicker passing concepts, and additional tight end support have helped cover the edge. Coaches have emphasized minimizing pressure on quarterback Jalen Hurts through modified protection calls.

The run game has also shifted, relying more on interior gaps rather than wide-zone plays typically supported by Johnson’s athleticism. The adjustment period has been noticeable, but the offensive unit has remained productive.

Philadelphia expects Johnson’s return to reset the offense’s balance and timing. His presence improves both protection consistency and run-blocking efficiency, especially in high-leverage drives late in games.

Lane Johnson’s return timeline remains focused on Week 15. The Eagles will monitor his progress closely, and his comeback could significantly strengthen the team’s postseason push.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is Lane Johnson’s current injury status?

Lane Johnson is recovering from a Lisfranc foot injury. He has missed two games. He was ruled out again for Week 13.

Q2: Will Lane Johnson play in Week 14?

Based on recent reports, Week 14 is unlikely. The current target is Week 15. The team will evaluate him next week.

Q3: How long is a typical Lisfranc recovery?

Lisfranc recovery often ranges from four to six weeks. Surgery can extend the timeline. Johnson does not need surgery.

Q4: How important is Lane Johnson to the Eagles’ offense?

Johnson is a core piece of the offensive line. He stabilizes protection and improves run-blocking. His return boosts overall efficiency.

Q5: What game is Johnson targeting for his return?

Current reporting points to Week 15 against the Las Vegas Raiders. This matches the updated four-game recovery window.