Lane Johnson Back After Mental Health Break
According to ESPN. Lane Johnson, the right tackle for the Philadelphia Eagles. Has decided to resume his duties with the team following a brief two week break to prioritize his mental well being.
On social media Johnson expressed his gratitude for the understanding and support extended to him by everyone during the past fortnight. “I’m grateful for the supportive notes and messages as I’ve dedicated myself to rebuilding my personal life. For quite a while now I have been grappling with depression and anxiety silently concealing these challenges from my loved ones and acquaintances.Should you be in a situation where you find yourself reading these lines amidst a struggle kindly acknowledge that there are others who empathize with your plight. I’m thrilled to be back with my teammates and coaches. I appreciate the entire Eagles community and can’t wait to keep playing in front of the best fans in the world.
— Lane Johnson (@LaneJohnson65) October 18, 2021
The 31-year-old right tackle, was surprisingly inactive before the Eagles faced off against the Kansas City Chiefs. His backup, Jack Driscoll, was notified hours before kickoff that he would be starting, per sources. The team addressed it and emphasized Johnson was dealing with a personal matter.
Although Johnson has opened up about football-related anxiety in the past, this has been a theme before on this Eagles team. One of Johnson’s closest friends, Eagles right guard Brandon Brooks, missed several games throughout his career due to his mental health. They tend to share special moments with each other that may seem odd to an outsider’s view but to them, it’s just another day in the office. They shared that they often puke at the pregame, then chat and joke about it after.
“We’re all human. We’re not monsters,” Johnson said during the Eagles’ Super Bowl run in 2017. “… It’s not foreign. It’s just something that’s not talked about. Sadly, there’s a stigma attached to it, as it’s often perceived as a weakness. However, when you shed light on it, you realize that many people in this world experience it.
.@LaneJohnson65 took some time away from the game to focus on his mental health. ❤️
If you or a loved one are struggling, call 800-273-TALK or visit https://t.co/Zjb85Bz2Vr. #ItTakesAllOfUs pic.twitter.com/hMoef3FgVc
— NFL (@NFL) October 18, 2021
Lane Johnson’s Official Return to the Philadelphia Eagles
All in all, Johnson was excused for three games, with Driscoll filling in for him. Many of his teammates understood, reached out and showed support. They also wished him well during his hiatus.
“A lot of love for Lane. I’m praying for him,” Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts said. “He’s in my heart, for sure.”
