Jaguars Sign Former Eagles OT Fred Johnson to Bolstering Offensive Line Depth

Jacksonville, FL – March 19, 2025, 08:17 AM PDT
The Jacksonville Jaguars have added another piece to their offensive line, signing former Philadelphia Eagles offensive tackle Fred Johnson to a one-year deal, as confirmed by his agent, Drew Rosenhaus, on Wednesday. The move comes as the Jaguars continue to fortify their roster in the late stages of free agency, aiming to protect quarterback Trevor Lawrence and improve their offensive front.

Johnson, 27, brings versatility and experience to Jacksonville after spending the past two seasons with the Eagles, where he played a key role in their Super Bowl LIX-winning campaign. The 6-foot-7, 326-pound tackle appeared in all 17 regular-season games in 2024, starting six, and played in all four postseason games, including the Eagles’ 40-22 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs. His ability to play both left and right tackle, along with some snaps at right guard, makes him a valuable depth piece for the Jaguars, who have already signed right guard Patrick Mekari, center Robert Hainsey, and swing tackle Chuma Edoga this offseason (Jacksonville.com, 19/3/2025).

A Florida native and former Florida Gators standout, Johnson entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2019. After stints with the Cincinnati Bengals and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, he joined the Eagles’ practice squad in 2022, eventually earning a spot on the active roster (Wikipedia). In 2024, Johnson logged a career-high 497 snaps for the Eagles but struggled in pass protection, allowing eight sacks and 38 pressures in 240 pass-blocking snaps, while ranking 56th in PFF’s run-blocking grade among tackles (Jaguarswire.usatoday.com, 19/3/2025).

For the Jaguars, Johnson’s signing addresses a need for depth behind starters Walker Little and Anton Harrison, especially after trading left tackle Cam Robinson last season (ESPN, 10/3/2025). GM James Gladstone emphasized the team’s focus on the offensive line, stating last week, “We answered some questions with our decisions in free agency, addressing both center and guard, as well as the tackle position” (Jacksonville.com, 19/3/2025). Fans on X are optimistic: “Johnson’s a solid depth piece for T-Law!” and “Jags building a wall up front—love it!” As the Jaguars aim to rebound from a 2024 season plagued by injuries, Johnson’s addition could prove pivotal in protecting their franchise quarterback.