Lane Johnson replaces Tyron Smith in the 2019 Pro Bowl

Hey, here’s a big story for an incredibly slow news day! Philadelphia Eagles right tackle Lane Johnson is headed to the 2019 Pro Bowl to replace Dallas Cowboys tackle Tyron Smith, who opted out of the game. This is the second year in a row Johnson has made the Pro Bowl.

While fans might not care a ton about Pro Bowl honors, Johnson certainly does. The 28-year-old blocker slept in his locker at the NovaCare Complex after learning he didn’t make the original Pro Bowl roster. He said he took as the snub as “an insult.” It clearly motivated him.

Johnson is arguably the best right tackle in the league. He had some brief struggles as he battled through a high ankle injury but there was much more good than bad in 2018. Pro Football Focus graded him as their 11th best offensive tackle. Johnson played a part in the Eagles’ ability to shut down elite pass rushers like J.J. Watt, Khalil Mack, Ryan Kerrigan, etc. late in the season.

The Eagles will now be represented by both Johnson and Malcolm Jenkins in this year’s Pro Bowl. Fletcher Cox, Zach Ertz, and Brandon Brooks were the Eagles’ original selections but Cox and Ertz opted out while Brooks (torn Achilles) obviously isn’t healthy enough to play.

The 2019 Pro Bowl will take place on Sunday, January 27.