Eagles offered a reality check on their Lane Johnson succession plan

The Philadelphia Eagles don't need to be convinced about their biggest long-term priority. They know what that is. We all know what that is. Depth along the offensive line, particularly at offensive tackle, has been a consistent talking point as the NFL Draft approaches. Finding a successor to Lane Johnson isn't just a luxury. It's a necessity, but let's think about that for a moment. As the conversation grew louder, a respected voice stepped in to bring some balance. Brian Baldinger recently offered everyone a reminder.

Replacing Lane Johnson won't be an easy ask for the Eagles organization.

Future Hall of Fame-caliber right tackles don't grow on trees, and expecting to find one ready-made is unrealistic. Remember when the Eagles drafted Andre Dillard to replace an aging legend, Jason Peters, at left tackle? That didn't work out very well. Fingers are crossed that history doesn't repeat itself.

There's only one Lane Johnson. That should resonate with anyone mapping out Philadelphia's draft plans. Brian Baldinger knows a thing or two about playing along the offensive line in Philadelphia, and he expressed that as only he can.

That doesn’t mean the Eagles shouldn’t address the position early. In fact, it reinforces why they should. No, replacing a player like Johnson isn't as simple as turning in a card on draft night, but it shouldn't change the expectation, nor the excitement. This is a good class at the offensive tackle position, and it's possible Philadelphia can find a perennial Pro Bowler.