If and when the Eagles finally win the Super Bowl, beers are on Lane Johnson.
Without the threat of a lengthy suspension hanging over his head, Johnson is a rejuvenated player at Eagles training camp this summer. The fifth-year veteran has been wearing a blonde wig under his helmet at practice to keep the mood light, but is also highly motivated, constantly talking about this being the best offensive line and most talented team he's been a part of.
You can tell how excited Johnson was to be at Lincoln Financial Field on Sunday, practicing in front of 23,000 fans.
"You get to the see the fans, they're excited about the season," Johnson said after practice. "I just want to deliver. I'm tired of not making the playoffs. If you make the playoffs, everybody's day around here is better, and life around Philly is just sweeter."
Johnson was suspended 10 games last season for a violation of the NFL's performance-enhancing drug policy. The ban was a blow for the Eagles, who had a 5-1 record in games with their starting right tackle but went 2-8 without him.
Yet, the process clearly took a toll on Johnson as well. Report of he would be suspended first hit in August, but it didn't become official until October, a full two months later.
Philadelphia Eagles
Complete coverage of the Philadelphia Eagles and their NFL rivals from NBC Sports Philadelphia.
With the entire mess finally behind him now, Johnson has no problems setting his goals high – and making the playoffs is only the tip of the iceberg.
"I have a lot to prove to this city," Johnson said. "I think if we have a few big years and make the playoffs if we win a Super Bowl, I'm giving out beer to everybody."
"We just have to worry about Week 1 and focus on that right now."
Focus on Week 1? That's easy for him to say. We're just counting down the days until Lane Johnson gives everybody free beer.
