Former Eagles Player Arrested Hours After Release Amid Charges of Public Intoxication and Disorderly Conduct

Former Eagles Player Arrested Hours After Release Amid Charges of Public Intoxication and Disorderly Conduct

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – November 5, 2025

A difficult day for the Philadelphia Eagles took an unfortunate turn Tuesday night, when just hours after a player was released from the roster, he was arrested in Center City, Philadelphia, on charges of public intoxication, disorderly conduct, and resisting arrest, according to multiple local reports.

Witnesses said the incident occurred late Tuesday evening, only a few hours after the player was informed of his release — a move the Eagles made to create roster flexibility ahead of potential practice-squad promotions. Those at the scene described him as “visibly emotional” and “appearing intoxicated,” pacing and shouting outside a restaurant near Market Street.

Police arrived at approximately 9:40 p.m., after several bystanders called to report a disturbance. According to the Philadelphia Police Department, the individual initially refused to comply with officers’ instructions, prompting them to briefly restrain him. No injuries were reported, but he was taken into custody and charged with multiple misdemeanors.

Sources later confirmed that the individual arrested was linebacker Patrick Johnson, a 26-year-old player who had been released earlier that same afternoon. Johnson, a seventh-round pick by the Eagles in the 2021 NFL Draft out of Tulane, spent four seasons in Philadelphia primarily as a rotational defender and special teams contributor behind Haason Reddick and Nolan Smith.

Those who’ve worked with Johnson expressed shock and concern rather than frustration. One former teammate said, “This doesn’t sound like the Patrick we know — he’s always been a hard worker and one of the most respectful guys in the locker room.”

Head coach Nick Sirianni addressed the matter early Wednesday morning with a message of empathy and compassion:

“He’s a man of great character and has always given everything to this team. Sometimes life puts weight on our shoulders that’s heavier than we can imagine, and it’s hard to hear news like this. Patrick’s always been a great teammate, always worked hard from day one. Everyone goes through tough times, and when we heard the news, the first thing we wanted was to make sure he was safe and getting the support he needs. Football comes second — the person comes first.”

Johnson was released on bail Wednesday morning and is expected to appear in court later this month. The Eagles confirmed they are working with the NFL Player Support and Wellness Program to ensure he receives proper assistance.

For many inside the organization, the incident serves as a somber reminder of the emotional toll and pressure young players face as they fight to secure their place in the league.

In Philadelphia, the focus isn’t on punishment — it’s on compassion, understanding, and hope that Patrick Johnson can rise again, overcoming perhaps the toughest battle of his career — the one off the field.