Last season's starting right tackle for the Eagles, Lane Johnson, finally returns this weekend after serving a four game suspension. That is big news for RB LeSean McCoy, as Johnson was one of the best running blocking lineman on the team last season when the running back lead the league in rushing. It also allows the Eagles to be more balanced in their approach, as they can run behind both Johnson and left tackle Jason Peters now, instead of running just to the left, which they have done more of this season.
Johnson being back not only helps the Eagles at tackle, but also at guard, as it allows veteran Todd Herremans to move back to his natural position at right guard. Herremans had been playing some tackle with Johnson suspended and other players injured, but now he gets the chance to move back inside. That gives McCoy his entire right side of the line back.
"I am so used to those guys," McCoy said, "and I know how well they block."
Johnson was a good run blocker in 2013, though he struggled in pass protection. Still, his return is a good boost for an offensive line that has been decimated by injury. The Rams are #10 in RB aFPA, though they have yielded 5.1 YPC and four rushing touchdowns in three games. We're not expecting a monster game from McCoy, but he should fare better than he did in the last two weeks.
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