Fred Johnson: Battling On After Collision
Fred Johnson, the reliable left tackle for the Philadelphia Eagles, faced a significant scare when he was involved in a jarring incident against the Jacksonville Jaguars. This incident occurred during an intense game that saw fellow Eagles' player Jalen Hurts complete an impressive 18-yard touchdown run. Johnson, a crucial component of the Eagles' offensive line, went down following a collision with Jaguars safety Andre Cisco, a hit that left many holding their breath.
The play quickly turned controversial. Cisco was flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct following the clash, a penalty that momentarily swung momentum in the Eagles' favor as they attempted a two-point conversion. Unfortunately for Philadelphia, the attempt failed, leaving the team to ponder what could have been as they continued to fight through the game.
Despite the alarming nature of the hit, where Cisco collided directly with Johnson’s knee, the resilient tackle only missed one play before returning to finish the game. "Yeah, I feel good about Sunday," said Johnson, expressing optimism about participating in the Eagles’ upcoming matchup against the Dallas Cowboys. He further hinted at his determination with, "It's leaning toward that way," as he addressed whether he would be fit to play in the anticipated divisional clash.
Concerns Over League Fines
Among other concerns, Johnson shared his apprehensions about the NFL's approach to handling fines and penalties related to such hits. "Anyone know if he got fined?" Johnson asked, voicing a common question in the aftermath of dangerous plays. His comments pointed to an underlying worry among players about the consistency and adequateness of enforcement. "If not, we need to talk to the league. It hurts," he added, stressing the need for accountability and safety for players in the league.
Johnson vividly recalled the incident, explaining how he narrowly avoided a potential season-ending injury: "That hit could have been way worse than what it looked like on film. I just seen him drop and I like lifted up my leg trying like to fall over him." His agility and presence of mind in that split second likely saved him from a far more debilitating outcome. Johnson revealed the grim prognosis he avoided, "They said if my foot was planted, I could have been out for the year."
Depth on the Offensive Line
As the Eagles prepare for their big game against the Cowboys, the status of their offensive line remains a focal point. Fortunately, there's hope on the horizon with Jordan Mailata expected to return from injured reserve soon, adding much-needed depth and experience. However, if Johnson happens to be unfit for the game, the team is ready to turn to Tyler Steen, who stands as the primary backup option at left tackle. Furthermore, Mekhi Becton is another player who has been developing at the position, gaining valuable experience to enhance the team's options.
The Eagles' coaching staff remains vigilant, knowing that protecting their star quarterback, Jalen Hurts, will hinge on the performance and health of their offensive line. Fred Johnson's availability is critical, not just for his physical ability but also for his leadership on the field.
The collision with Cisco serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities players face each game. As Johnson prepares himself mentally and physically for Sunday, the broader conversation about player safety, particularly around knee-related collisions, continues to gain traction. For the Eagles, overcoming these challenges will involve not just tactical adjustments but also ensuring their players are safeguarded against undue risks.
As fans eagerly await the showdown with the Cowboys, all eyes will be on Fred Johnson to see if he returns to anchor the line and protect his quarterback in one of the NFL’s most storied rivalries.