Celek, Johnson, Remain In Eagles Nest
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The money was there. The security was there.
But it was the love of Philadelphia and the Eagles which resulted in long-term contracts for Brent Celek and Lane Johnson.
Both Eagles agreed to new deals which will keep them in Philadelphia for many years to come. Celek agreed to a three-year extension, while Johnson signed a six-year deal which will run through 2021. Both men expressed gratitude to the Eagles organization and both said there was no other place there would rather be than in Philadelphia.
"This is the greatest city to play for in the NFL," said Celek. "To be able to really stay anywhere the length of your career is absolute amazing. The fact that I've been able to do it here...it's been wonderful."
"It's sinking in now," said Johnson. "I'm very fortunate to be drafted to a great place where I was able to develop and get better every year. I'm very fortunate."
The Eagles are fortunate to have Johnson back. The right tackle was one of the few bright spots on an offensive line which struggled with injuries and inefficiency in 2015. The Eagles still have Jason Peters at left tackle, but Johnson is expected to move to the left side when Peters' time is done in Philadelphia.
"I think it's what they drafted me for," Johnson said. "Honestly, Jason Peters is probably the best tackle of all time. It's him and Walter Jones, in my opinion. He's taught me so much."
While both Johnson and Celek talked about their love for the organization and the city, both believe the Eagles can shake off their 7-9 season and get back into contention. For Celek, winning was also an important factor in agreeing to an extension with the Eagles.
"I think we've got a great group of guys," said Celek. "We've got a team that can definitely win now. We need to win now. I know that's what the organization expects and we as players expect that, too."
Celek does not know who will be throwing him the football next season. With the signing of Celek, Johnson, and Zach Ertz, the Eagles are beginning to lose cap room. Celek said he would like to see Quarterback Sam Bradford return, but understands the business side of the NFL.
"Sam's a good player," Celek said. "I think we can win games with Sam. I'd like Sam back, but if he's not here, I think we can win games, too."
Johnson expressed his happiness for the extension given to Ertz. With Ertz and Celek locked in for several seasons, the Eagles appear to be set at the tight end position. Johnson also believes both men add to what has become strong chemistry for several of the returning players, which is another reason why the tackle made his commitment to Philadelphia.
"It's great," Johnson said. "We have a great group of guys that are here. Moving forward, I think we'll just continue to get better."
