The Jacksonville Jaguars’ pass rush could exploit a sudden Eagles vulnerability at right tackle after Lane Johnson’s abrupt midseason retirement, with rookie Markel Bell expected to start in London.

The Jacksonville Jaguars could have a clear opportunity to pressure the Philadelphia Eagles’ offense when the two teams meet in London, with a sudden change at right tackle leaving Philadelphia with a major question to answer.

The Eagles announced Tuesday that veteran right tackle Lane Johnson is retiring after 14 NFL seasons. The 36-year-old, who spent his entire career in Philadelphia, cited his personal and family priorities and his desire to focus on his mental health as he stepped away from football. 

Johnson leaves behind one of the strongest resumes among offensive tackles of his era. He was selected fourth overall in the 2013 NFL Draft, earned six Pro Bowl selections and two first-team All-Pro honors, and helped the Eagles win two Super Bowl championships. 

His retirement comes at an especially difficult time for Philadelphia. Johnson was already absent from Sunday’s loss to the Los Angeles Rams for personal reasons, with rookie Markel Bell stepping into the starting role at right tackle. Bell played the entire game and is now expected to make his second career start against Jacksonville at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. 

That could give the Jaguars’ pass rush a matchup worth attacking.

Bell showed encouraging flashes against the Rams, particularly as a run blocker, but he also allowed six pressures in the game, according to Pro Football Focus. Jacksonville’s defense could look to test the rookie with pressure packages and one-on-one rushes throughout Sunday’s matchup. 

For Philadelphia, the challenge will be protecting quarterback Jalen Hurts while giving Bell enough help to settle into his new role. The Eagles are already dealing with other changes along the offensive line, making Johnson’s sudden departure an even bigger adjustment.

Jacksonville enters the matchup with a defense capable of creating pressure, and the Eagles will need to find a way to keep Hurts upright against a unit that could repeatedly look toward the inexperienced right side of Philadelphia’s offensive line.

Bell now has an opportunity to establish himself as Johnson’s long-term successor. But against the Jaguars, his performance at right tackle could have an immediate impact on whether the Eagles can get their season back on track.