Lane Johnson Backs No. 68 Pick Markel Bell as Eagles Right Tackle Heir

3 articles · Updated · Yahoo Sports · Aug 8

Johnson, a 6-time Pro Bowler who says 2026 will probably be his last season, called Markel Bell one of the best rookies he has been around and said the tackle should handle his chance well.
Bell, the No. 68 overall pick, has already taken first-team reps at right tackle while Johnson missed four training camp practices, giving Philadelphia an early look at a possible succession plan.
The 6-foot-9, 358-pound rookie played left tackle at Miami, so the switch to the right side still requires adjustments in footwork, hand placement and protection angles against NFL edge rushers.
Philadelphia does not need Bell to start immediately, with Fred Johnson still an experienced option and the rookie expected to develop behind Lane Johnson before a larger role could open in 2027.