Eagles RT Lane Johnson schedules appeal of possible 10-game ban

Philadelphia Eagles right tackle Lane Johnson has scheduled an appeal hearing on Oct. 4 as he attempts to avoid a potential 10-game suspension for violating the league's performance-enhancing drug policy for a second time, a source told ESPN NFL Insider Adam Caplan on Tuesday.

The Philadelphia Inquirer, which first reported the news, said a ruling by an independent arbitrator is expected shortly thereafter.

Johnson, who has criticized the NFLPA regarding supplement use, is eligible to play through the appeals process.

"Until I hear from the league office, Lane is my starting right tackle," Eagles coach Doug Pederson said Tuesday.

If Johnson loses the appeal, the suspension would start Oct. 9 andAllen Barbre would likely move from left guard to right tackle for the Eagles.Stefen Wisniewski and rookie Isaac Seumalo both saw time with the first team at left guard during preseason preparation.

Johnson was suspended for four games in 2014 after testing positive for a banned substance. Johnson said he had taken a prescribed medication without checking it with the Eagles' medical staff.

The Eagles play against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday before heading into their bye week.