Jaguars Cut Former Eagle After Injury — But Philly Fans Still Have His Back

Philadelphia, PA – June 9, 2025

The NFL can be brutally unforgiving, and Fred Johnson just learned that the hard way.

Only months after signing a one-year deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars, the former Philadelphia Eagles offensive lineman was released following a devastating ACL tear suffered during Organized Team Activities. At 28, Johnson’s season is over before it began — and with it, a critical opportunity to revive his career as a starting-caliber tackle.

The Jaguars acted quickly, clearing his $1.2 million non-guaranteed salary from the books and moving forward with younger talent on the offensive line. In cold contractual terms, the move makes sense. But in Philadelphia, the response was anything but cold.

Fred Johnson may not have been a household name in Philly, but he was something arguably more valuable — a grinder. An unsung swing tackle who stepped up in key moments during the Eagles’ 2024 Super Bowl run, including one start and appearances in 13 games. He wasn’t flashy, but he was Philly tough — dependable, versatile, and always ready when his number was called.

So when news broke of his injury and release, Eagles fans made it known: they haven’t forgotten.

"Tough break for Fred! Hope he bounces back — guy’s a fighter," one fan posted on X (@PhillyFanatic). Another wrote, "He gave us everything when we needed depth. He’s earned the city’s respect.” Even accounts unaffiliated with the team shared messages of support, with hashtags like #OnceAnEagle and #FredFightsBack trending in local circles.

And Johnson noticed.

In a post from his hospital bed, the lineman tweeted: “Philly’s spirit is resilience. I’ll be back stronger. Appreciate the love always.”

That one line — "Philly’s spirit is resilience" — may say more about Johnson than any stat line ever could. He understands the culture. He lived it. And now, even while rehabbing away from the team, he continues to embody it.

Meanwhile, the Jaguars — led by former Eagles coach Doug Pederson — are pivoting to youth, including second-year tackle Anton Harrison. Their decision reflects the harsh realities of the modern NFL: production, availability, and cap space rule the day. Loyalty, unfortunately, doesn’t always make the roster.

But in Philadelphia, loyalty isn’t about who’s on the current 53-man roster. It’s about who earned the jersey.

Fred Johnson earned his.

And as he begins a grueling year-long rehab, he won’t be walking alone. Not in this city.

Because once an Eagle, always an Eagle — especially when you bleed for it.