Stephen A. Smith apologizes for Lane Johnson mental health remarks

SportsWhy Trey Wingo says Stephen A. Smith embarrassed ESPN after Lane Johnson commentsESPN personality Stephen A. Smith apologized after comments about former Philadelphia Eagles star Lane Johnson’s retirement led to criticism from fans, media members and former ESPN host Trey Wingo. (AP Photo/Caroline Brehman )AP Photo/Caroline BrehmanA new controversy involving ESPN star Stephen A. Smith is drawing attention across the sports world after comments he made about retired Philadelphia Eagles standout Lane Johnson sparked widespread criticism. According to multiple reports, Smith questioned Johnson’s decision to retire four games into the 2026 NFL season and made remarks that many viewers felt minimized the seriousness of mental health struggles, Yahoo! reported. Johnson, a longtime Eagles offensive tackle and multiple-time Pro Bowl player, announced this week that he was stepping away from football to focus on his mental health. Johnson has previously spoken publicly about anxiety and depression and has become one of the NFL’s most visible advocates for mental health awareness, USA TODAY said. During ESPN’s “First Take,” Smith mocked the timing of Johnson’s retirement and suggested the Eagles’ early-season struggles may have influenced the decision. The comments quickly triggered backlash from fans, media members and former players. Among those speaking out was former ESPN host Trey Wingo, who wrote on social media that Smith’s behavior was “truly embarrassing.” His response quickly spread online and added fuel to the growing debate. On Thursday, Smith opened “First Take” with a lengthy apology. He said nobody at ESPN forced him to apologize and acknowledged he was wrong. Smith said his biggest regret was that his comments may have discouraged people from seeking help for mental health challenges.The incident has once again put mental health in sports at the center of a national conversation. Chris Pugh covers trending news and national breaking stories, focusing on the moments, conversations, and cultural flashpoints shaping the national news cycle. Chris worked as a digital reporter for...This article was produced with assistance from AI tools and reviewed by AL.com staff.