Ryan Clark challenges Stephen A. Smith over Lane Johnson’s retirement

Ryan Clark has defended Lane Johnson after Stephen A. Smith questioned the Philadelphia Eagles tackle’s decision to retire during the 2026 NFL season. Speaking on The Pivot Podcast, Clark said that a person’s intentions matter less than the effect their words have on others. He also praised Johnson for putting his mental health and family first, while pointing out why Smith’s comments deserved criticism despite his later apology.Ryan Clark tells Stephen A. Smith why Lane Johnson’s mental health mattersClark made his position clear while discussing Johnson’s retirement and the reaction to it. He said he was proud of the veteran offensive tackle for choosing what was best for him rather than forcing himself to continue playing football.“Lane Johnson’s football career has been about intent and impact. And I think more people should understand that,” Clark said on The Pivot Podcast.