Logo

Ex-Eagles Super Bowl Lineman Just Signed A $1.3M Deal But Walked Away To Return To Philadelphia — ‘This Is Where I Belong’

Philadelphia, PA – August 24, 2025

The Eagles didn’t just make a roster move on Sunday night — they welcomed back family. In a deal that sent a 2026 seventh-round pick to Jacksonville, Philadelphia re-acquired offensive tackle Fred Johnson, a Super Bowl champion who once helped anchor the line during the Eagles’ championship run.

What makes the move even more striking is the context. Just five months ago, Johnson signed a one-year, $1.3 million contract with the Jaguars, aiming for a fresh start. But when the call from Philadelphia came, it wasn’t about money or opportunity elsewhere — it was about coming home.

“Philly gave me my shot, gave me my purpose. I left, I battled, but deep down this is always where I belonged. I want to give everything back to this city, to this team, because the Eagles are my home.”

Johnson, 28, had already spent two seasons in Philadelphia, starting six games in 2024 and appearing in all 17 in 2023 as the primary backup to Lane Johnson and Jordan Mailata. He also suited up for all four playoff games during the Eagles’ Super Bowl run, proving his toughness and value when it mattered most.

Now, after a short detour in Jacksonville, Johnson returns to the midnight green — with Philadelphia inheriting his affordable $1.3 million deal. For the Eagles, it’s a low-cost, high-value reunion. For Johnson, it’s something far more personal.

Undrafted in 2019, Johnson fought for a place in the league with stops in Pittsburgh, Cincinnati, and Tampa Bay before Philadelphia embraced him. It was in Philly that he solidified his role, fought in the trenches, and lifted the Lombardi Trophy. That bond never faded, even after he briefly wore another jersey.

On the same day, the Eagles traded OL Darian Kinnard to Green Bay for a 2027 sixth-rounder, while also finalizing the deal for QB Sam Howell. But the Fred Johnson trade stands out — not for the numbers on a contract, but for the heart behind it.

Because in Philadelphia, it’s not just about signing players. It’s about bringing back people who understand what it means to wear midnight green — people like Fred Johnson, who never stopped calling the Eagles his family.

Chiefs Locker Room Erupts, Chris Jones Under Investigation for NFL Sports Betting in Jaguars Game - HC Andy Reid Hands Down Harsh Punishment
Kansas City, MO – The Kansas City Chiefs' locker room is in turmoil following an NFL investigation into defensive star Chris Jones over allegations related to sports betting. Jones, a multiple-time Pro Bowler, has been placed on non-disciplinary paid leave through Week 10, while head coach (HC) Andy Reid has imposed internal penalties after a suspicious performance in the loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. SOURCE: https://x.com/TheNFLDrop/status/1975574483990909165 The incident stems from a decisive play at the end of the game, where Jones – the Chiefs' top defensive tackle – appeared to "do absolutely nothing" to stop quarterback Trevor Lawrence from scoring the game-winning touchdown. According to sources, this lack of effort prompted the NFL to launch an investigation, suspecting possible involvement in betting, a serious violation of league rules. "He just stood there watching Lawrence run into the end zone like he was watching a movie," an anonymous teammate shared, reflecting the outrage in the locker room. Jones, 31, has been a cornerstone for the Chiefs since being selected in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft from Mississippi State. With an impressive career including 3 Pro Bowls, 2 Super Bowl wins, and 75.5 sacks, he signed a 5-year, $158 million contract in 2023. However, this season, Jones has only recorded 2 sacks through 5 games, and his performance against the Jaguars has drawn sharp criticism from Chiefs fans on social media. HC Andy Reid reacted strongly, penalizing Jones by sidelining him from practices and requiring an internal explanation. "We do not tolerate any behavior that harms the team or undermines the integrity of the game," Reid stated post-game. "Our organization prides itself on discipline and trust, and while we await the results of the NFL's investigation, we'll handle this internally to ensure it doesn't distract from our goals. Chris is a talented player, but no one is above the standards we set here in Kansas City." Meanwhile, the Chiefs' locker room is described as "explosive" with arguments, as some players like Patrick Mahomes express disappointment but still offer support for their teammate. The NFL investigation is expected to continue, and if violations are proven, Jones could face a long-term suspension. The Chiefs, currently at 2-3, must quickly stabilize their roster ahead of their next matchup. Fans are watching closely, with many calling this potentially the "biggest scandal of the season."