Lane Johnson, right tackle for the Philadelphia Eagles, has been named to the Madden 99 Club following a recent Training Camp practice. The announcement was made by Saquon Barkley, who presented Johnson with a diamond “99” necklace in recognition of the achievement.
Johnson becomes only the fourth player from the Eagles to reach a 99 overall rating in Madden history. He joins Barkley (Madden NFL 26), kicker David Akers (Madden NFL 06), and Hall of Fame safety Brian Dawkins (Madden NFL 04). Last season, Johnson held a 98 overall rating.
“That’s awesome,” Johnson said after receiving the chain. “Yeah, I really don’t even know what to say or what to do with the chain. None of it could be possible without my teammates, my coaches, and, obviously, people in this building. So, (it’s a) cool thing to have. Very thankful, grateful, and honored.”
This year’s edition of Madden features just seven players with a 99 overall rating: Barkley, Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson, Ja’Marr Chase, Myles Garrett, Justin Jefferson, and now Johnson. Barkley had previously suggested that Johnson should be added to the club.
Last season saw significant accomplishments for both Johnson and the Eagles offense. The team set an NFL record for rushing yards during the regular season and playoffs with a total of 3,866 yards. Additionally, Barkley became only the ninth player in league history to surpass 2,000 rushing yards in a single season.
Barkley is also this year’s Madden cover athlete and earlier became the first offensive player from the Eagles to join the 99 Club.
“Well, I think it’s a reason, you know, he came here and bumped my (rating) up,” Johnson said regarding joining Barkley as a fellow member of the club. “A couple big runs, bump it up.”
Johnson will be able to play as himself at his new rating when Madden NFL 26 is released on August 14. Fans who pre-order the deluxe version will receive early access.
