While it has yet to be confirmed by the team or the NFL, according to Paul Domowitch of the Philadelphia Daily News, Philadelphia Eagles offensive lineman Lane Johnson is being suspended for the first four games of the upcoming 2014 season after testing positive for performance enhancing drugs.
After an incredibly strong combine performance, where he was considered one of the most athletic offensive line prospects in recent history, Johnson was drafted 4th overall by the Eagles in the 2013 NFL Draft. Johnson is an incredibly talented player, but it is now fair to wonder how prevalent the PEDs were in his elite-level athleticism.
Johnson had an up-and-down rookie season, but he started all 16 games for the Eagles at right tackle.
Johnson struggled at times last season, but his obvious athleticism allowed him to show huge upside on the field. He is a key member of Chip Kelly’s fast paced offense and losing him early in the season will certainly hurt the Eagles.
This loss will be a huge blow for the Eagles, who have talented players on their offensive line, but lack depth. Allen Babre will likely step up as the starting right tackle in the absence of Johnson. Babre is a solid offensive lineman, but he does not have near the athleticism of Johnson.
It will be very interesting to see how this loss effects the Eagles’ offense as a whole.