From OutKick · Alejandro Avila · · 50s
Stephen A. Smith Apologizes for Lane Johnson Rant
ESPN's Stephen A. Smith posts video apology after questioning Eagles tackle Lane Johnson's retirement decision.
In brief
ESPN's Stephen A. Smith posts video apology after questioning Eagles tackle Lane Johnson's retirement decision. ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith apologized for suggesting Philadelphia Eagles' Lane Johnson's mental health decision was a poor timing choice. Originally reported by OutKick.
Lane Johnson Announces Retirement
Philadelphia Eagles tackle Lane Johnson retired four games into the 2026 NFL season.
“Right now, it is critical that I focus on my mental health”
Stephen A. Smith Questions Timing
ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith criticized Johnson's retirement timing on First Take.
“Now he calls it quits. Not before the season. Not in the offseason”
Smith Faces Backlash
Co-host Kimberley A. Martin called Smith's comments disrespectful on air.
“I feel like you’re making light of the situation”
Smith Posts Apology Video
Smith posted video apology on X addressing misinterpretation of mental health comments.
“I’m sorry that when I was on television earlier this morning, on First Take … people misconstrued me minimizing mental health”
Eagles Lose Key Players
Philadelphia Eagles lost All-Pro Lane Johnson and starting lineman Cam Jurgens to roster shakeup.
What to remember
ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith apologized for suggesting Philadelphia Eagles' Lane Johnson's mental health decision was a poor timing choice.
