Philadelphia Eagles Offensive Line: Unrivaled Strength with Mailata and Johnson at the Helm
The Philadelphia Eagles are in the midst of a promising NFL season, spearheaded by a formidable offensive line that has drawn widespread acclaim. Under the tutelage of Head Coach Nick Sirianni, the Eagles' linemen have emerged as some of the most talented and high-performing players in the league. Notably, the tandem of Jordan Mailata and Lane Johnson stands out as a key piece of the Eagles' success puzzle, both earning top grades from Pro Football Focus.
Australia to the NFL: Mailata's Meteoric Rise
Perhaps one of the most unexpected success stories in the NFL is that of Jordan Mailata. At 27 years old, Mailata, who hails from Australia and initially had no background in American football, has ascended to the zenith of his profession. According to Pro Football Focus, Mailata is the highest-graded tackle in the NFL with an impressive grade of 94.9. He has been a powerhouse on the field, excelling in both run blocking and pass protection, ranking first with a run-blocking grade of 94.2 and second in pass blocking with a grade of 91.5.
Lane Johnson, Mailata's fellow lineman and biggest admirer, summed up the evolution of Mailata succinctly. "From coming from where he was, not playing any football to the best left tackle in football I think. I don't think anybody can run block the way he can and pass pro, first time anybody that size that can move the way it does," Johnson said, highlighting Mailata's unique physical capabilities and adaptability.
Lane Johnson: A Paragon of Protection
In the world of football statistics, numbers often speak louder than words, and Lane Johnson's numbers are nothing short of a testament to his excellence. At 34, Johnson commands the league's best pressure rate allowed per dropback at 1.7%. This is no small feat, considering the high-caliber opposition on the field every week. His expertise ensures the Eagles' quarterbacks are afforded more time and protection, a critical element of the team's offensive strategy.
Johnson's high regard for Mailata is mutual with Sirianni, who has been vocal about Mailata's contributions. "He's playing really good football. Yeah, he is powerful in the run game," said Sirianni. A sentiment echoed by Johnson, who remarked on Mailata's comprehensive skill set, "Usually you have guys 370, 365, they can't move. He can do it all."
Dynamic Duo: A Rare Combination
Having both tackles, Mailata and Johnson, graded within the top 10 by Pro Football Focus is a rare accolade, one that only the Philadelphia Eagles and the Denver Broncos can claim. This dynamic duo's synergy on the field is crucial for maintaining a robust and adaptable offensive line, a linchpin in the Eagles' high-powered offensive plays.
Mailata's consistency is reflected further in his statistics this season, where he has allowed just one sack and eight pressures over 260 pass-blocking snaps. His pressure rate per dropback stands at a notable 3.1%, placing him tenth among all NFL offensive tackles.
Foundational Strength
Despite their differing backgrounds and paths to the NFL, Mailata and Johnson have proven to be the cornerstone of the Eagles' offensive linemen, with each contributing unique strengths that complement the other. As the season progresses, their performance will undoubtedly remain key to the Eagles' aspirations and success.
Observing the camaraderie and mutual respect they share, it's evident they've fostered an influential partnership that's rooted in both personal and professional admiration. As Johnson succinctly put it, recognizing potential roadblocks, "Hamstring or a f---ing gun," emphasizing Mailata's resilience and the few obstacles that could stand in his way.
This dynamic partnership between youth and experience represents the heart of Philadelphia's strategy, driven by the vision and direction of Nick Sirianni. With such a foundation, the Eagles are poised to tackle any adversities that lie ahead, bolstering their quest for excellence in the NFL.