Eagles Reveal 'X-factor' Ahead vs. Chiefs Clash – Preseason Standout Shockingly Elevated to Active Roster

Philadelphia, PA – September 9, 2025
As the Philadelphia Eagles continue fine-tuning their roster ahead of Week 2, one move has caught the attention of fans and analysts alike: linebacker Patrick Johnson has been elevated from the practice squad to the 53-man active roster. While the team also signed running back Montrell Johnson and offensive tackle Hollin Pierce to the practice squad and released wide receiver Elijah Cooks, the spotlight is firmly on Johnson — a veteran with unfinished business in midnight green.

Johnson isn’t a newcomer to this stage. Drafted in the seventh round in 2021, he has logged multiple seasons in Philadelphia’s defense, contributing as both a rotational pass rusher and a key special teams player. Known for his relentless motor and versatility, Johnson has been the type of player who thrives in big moments, whether it’s late-season playoff pushes or high-intensity defensive packages.

His path back to the roster this year, however, has been anything but smooth. On March 14, 2025, Johnson signed a one-year contract with the Eagles, reaffirming his place in Philadelphia’s plans. But when the final roster cuts came on August 26, he was released as part of the 53-man trimdown. Just one day later, on August 27, he was re-signed to the practice squad — a quick turnaround that kept him in the building. Before long, the Eagles elevated him again, promoting him from the practice squad ahead of their season opener against the Dallas Cowboys.

This summer, Johnson turned heads once more. In limited preseason action, he produced four tackles, a pass breakup, and an interception — the kind of impact plays that fit perfectly with defensive coordinator Vic Fangio’s aggressive, disruptive scheme. His experience in the Eagles’ locker room and his ability to adapt across formations made him an obvious candidate when the front office looked to strengthen the depth chart before the defending champions face their biggest test yet.

And that test comes quickly: a showdown against the reigning AFC champion Kansas City Chiefs. With Patrick Mahomes’ ability to extend plays and punish defenses that hesitate for even a second, the Eagles need every wrinkle they can find. Johnson’s versatility makes him an ideal “secret weapon” — able to rush the passer from the edge, drop into coverage in sub-packages, or set the edge against the run. His presence could be the difference between Mahomes finding space and the Eagles forcing quick, uncomfortable throws.

“This isn’t just about depth,” one team source noted. “Patrick gives us flexibility, toughness, and the kind of experience you want in a game like this. He’s been here, he’s battled, and we know he can deliver in the biggest moments.”

For Eagles Nation, the move sends a clear message: Philadelphia isn’t just preparing to defend their Super Bowl crown — they’re preparing to surprise anyone who underestimates their depth. Johnson may not be a household name, but against Kansas City, he could be the X-factor who tips the balance.