Report: Lane Johnson returns to Eagles after time away for “personal matter” [UPDATE]

UPDATE: John Clark updated his report to say that Lane Johnson will be returning to Philly at some point today. Nick Sirianni said that Johnson is not yet at the facility. Sirianni wouldn’t say if Johnson will definitely be available to play against the Panthers.

ORIGINAL STORY BELOW.

Eagles starting right tackle Lane Johnson is back at the NovaCare Complex after unexpectedly missing Sunday’s Week 4 game against the Kansas City Chiefs due to a “personal matter.” This much is being reported by NBC Sports Philadelphia’s John Clark.

The exact nature of Johnson’s “personal matter” is still currently unclear. Regardless, the Eagles are undoubtedly glad to have him back in Philadelphia.

Johnson’s absence in the Chiefs game didn’t hurt the Eagles as much as one might’ve thought it would. The offense moved the ball at will, racking up 461 yards of offense and 30 points. Offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland and the backups deserve credit but some of that success can also be attributed to KC’s dreadful defense.

Moving forward, the Eagles are obviously better off with Johnson in the lineup. His return comes at a crucial time with Philly about to face formidable Panthers pass rushers Brian Burns and Haason Reddick.

Johnson being back likely means the Eagles will use the following offensive line configuration in Week 5:

Left tackle — Jordan Mailata or Andre Dillard
Left guard — Landon Dickerson
Center — Jason Kelce
Right guard — Jack Driscoll
Right tackle — Lane Johnson

Mailata will get the start if he’s healthy enough to play. Otherwise, it’ll be Dillard. Johnson’s return shifts Driscoll to right guard with Nate Herbig returning to the bench as the top interior backup.