With Eagles Thin at Right Tackle, Matt Pryor Takes First-Team Practice Reps

Injuries Force Eagles to Adjust Up Front

As the Philadelphia Eagles prepare for a crucial late-season matchup with the Washington Commanders, injuries along the offensive line have forced the team to lean on its depth. With both Lane Johnson and Fred Johnson dealing with health concerns, veteran lineman Matt Pryor has stepped into first-team practice reps at right tackle, positioning himself as a potential starter at a pivotal moment in the season.

For Pryor, the situation represents both opportunity and uncertainty—an opening that comes only because others are unavailable, yet one he has prepared for all year. With three games remaining in the regular season and an NFC East title within reach, the Eagles may soon need Pryor to anchor one of the most demanding positions on the field.

Lane Johnson Still Sidelined

Lane Johnson, the Eagles’ longtime Pro Bowl right tackle, has not practiced in nearly five weeks after suffering a Lisfranc injury. While the team has remained cautious and noncommittal regarding his return timeline, the absence has placed added strain on Philadelphia’s depth at tackle.

Johnson’s injury has been felt not only in protection schemes but also in leadership along the line. His continued absence has forced the coaching staff to explore contingency plans, especially with postseason stakes rapidly increasing.

As of midweek practice, Johnson remained sidelined, making Pryor’s preparation increasingly relevant.

Fred Johnson’s Status Adds Uncertainty

Complicating matters further, Fred Johnson—who had been backing up Lane Johnson—missed practice with an ankle injury. Though he was seen moving without an obvious limp afterward and expressed confidence that he would play, availability often depends on medical clearance rather than optimism.

The Eagles are preparing for all possibilities. Should Fred Johnson be unable to go, Pryor would be the next man up. That reality has already translated into increased reps with the first-team offense, a clear sign that the coaching staff wants him fully ready.

Pryor’s Long Wait for an Opportunity

Matt Pryor’s path this season has tested patience and professionalism. After starting 15 games at guard for the Chicago Bears last year and logging more than 1,000 snaps, Pryor signed with the Eagles as a free agent expecting to compete for a meaningful role.

Instead, he has appeared in 13 games this season but played just 31 snaps. Much of his contribution has come behind the scenes—preparing every week as if he were going to start, only to watch from the sideline on game day.

“I’ve been around the league long enough to know anything can happen,” Pryor said. “So I go into the week with the same preparation as always and be ready to play any position in any situation.”

The Mental Challenge of Waiting

Pryor did not hide how difficult the waiting has been. For a player accustomed to regular playing time, standing by can be mentally taxing, especially when opportunities depend on injury rather than performance.

“I ain’t gonna lie, it’s hard,” Pryor admitted. “I want to play. I hate waiting for somebody to get hurt. But it’s the situation I’m in right now, and it is what it is.”

That honesty reflects the reality of life as a backup in the NFL. Preparation without guarantees is part of the job, and Pryor has embraced it despite limited game action.

Position Changes and Role Adjustments

When Pryor signed with Philadelphia, he believed guard would be his primary position. However, circumstances shifted as the season progressed. With Tyler Steen emerging as a reliable starter inside, Pryor was moved back to tackle—a position he has played before but one that requires constant reps to stay sharp.

“That’s how it rolls,” Pryor said simply, reflecting his adaptability.

His willingness to move where needed has earned respect within the organization, even if it has limited his on-field exposure.

Respect for the Players Ahead of Him

Despite limited snaps, Pryor has spoken positively about the players ahead of him on the depth chart. He praised Steen’s performance and acknowledged the overall strength of the Eagles’ offensive line, which features multiple Pro Bowl-caliber players.

“Steen is a phenomenal player,” Pryor said. “I’m not surprised he’s starting. Look at our O-line—they’re dominant players. So yeah, surprised, but not surprised.”

The comments reflect a veteran who understands the business side of football while maintaining respect for teammates who have earned their roles.

Preparation Meets Opportunity

Now, with injuries mounting, Pryor’s preparation may finally meet opportunity. Taking first-team reps at practice is not just symbolic—it is a sign that the Eagles trust him to step in if needed during a critical stretch of the season.

Right tackle is a demanding position, especially against division rivals with aggressive pass rushers. Pryor’s size, experience, and versatility make him a logical choice should the Eagles need stability on the edge.

His familiarity with multiple positions could also allow the coaching staff to adjust protections and personnel packages more fluidly.

Bigger Stakes Late in the Season

With playoff positioning on the line, every personnel decision carries added weight. The Eagles are chasing a second straight NFC East title, and offensive line continuity will be key to sustaining their offense in December football.

Whether Pryor starts or remains a backup this week, his role underscores the importance of depth in the NFL. Championships are rarely won by starters alone; they depend on players who stay ready when their number is called.

Ready When Called Upon

For now, Pryor continues to do what he has done all season—prepare, stay patient, and embrace uncertainty. His first-team reps may lead to a start, or they may simply reinforce his readiness if injuries strike midgame.

Either way, Pryor’s mindset remains unchanged.

“Anything can happen,” he said. “You just have to be ready.”

As the Eagles navigate injuries and pressure-packed games down the stretch, Matt Pryor stands as a reminder that opportunity in the NFL often comes not when expected, but when preparation finally meets necessity.