In the high-stakes arena of the NFL, the success of a team often hinges on the prowess of its offensive line. For the Philadelphia Eagles, this truth is personified by their standout tackles, Jordan Mailata and Lane Johnson. Under the stewardship of head coach Nick Sirianni, these linemen have not only secured their status among the league's elite but have also become the linchpins of the Eagles' offensive strategy.
The Rise of Jordan Mailata
Jordan Mailata's journey to the pinnacle of professional football is nothing short of remarkable. At 27 years old, the former rugby player from Australia has evolved into the highest-graded tackle in the NFL, boasting an impressive grade of 94.9 according to Pro Football Focus. His remarkable transformation from an athlete unfamiliar with American football to an elite left tackle has captured the awe of teammates and coaches alike.
Lane Johnson, Mailata's compatriot on the offensive line, articulates the respect that Mailata commands: "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."
These accolades aren't unwarranted. Mailata's skillset places him at the top of the charts in run blocking with a grade of 94.2, while his pass blocking sits at a near-perfect 91.5. His performance this season has been stellar, allowing only one sack and eight pressures across 260 pass-blocking snaps. His pressure rate per dropback, a modest 3.1%, ranks him tenth among all NFL offensive tackles, highlighting his formidable presence on the field.
Lane Johnson: A Veteran Masterclass
Complementing Mailata on the right side of the line is 34-year-old Lane Johnson, whose experience and expertise have set a gold standard for tackles across the league. Johnson leads the NFL with a remarkable pressure rate allowed per dropback of just 1.7%, a statistic that underscores his unparalleled blocking ability.
Sirianni himself is an ardent admirer of Johnson's skills. He refers to him as "the best tackle in the world," a testament to Johnson's influence and reliability as a protector for the Eagles' quarterbacks. Johnson's own sentiments about his role and partnership with Mailata reveal mutual respect and acknowledgment of shared excellence. "Usually you have guys 370, 365, they can't move. He can do it all," Johnson observes, pointing to Mailata's unique blend of size and agility.
The Dynamic Duo of Philadelphia
The combination of Mailata and Johnson contributes significantly to the Philadelphia Eagles’ offensive strength, making them the only team, alongside the Denver Broncos, to have both tackles ranked among the top 10 by Pro Football Focus. With Mailata and Johnson as bookends on the offensive line, Sirianni’s team is equipped with a formidable foundation, crucial for both run and pass plays.
Lane Johnson is effusive in articulating the promise and prowess of Mailata. "He's playing really good football. Yeah, he is powerful in the run game.” Johnson further emphasizes the potential and growth that Mailata embodies. "He's on his way and he knows it. We've all known it. We've seen him progress over the years. But yeah, he's, he's premier, he's elite."
A Bright Path Ahead
For Nick Sirianni, leading the Eagles with two of the league’s most proficient tackles on his roster is both a privilege and a tactical advantage. In a game where victory is often sculpted in the trenches, Mailata and Johnson provide unwavering fortitude. The chemistry and synergy between these linemen create not just a barrier for opposing defenses but a benchmark for excellence in offensive line play.
As the season progresses, the duo's contributions will undoubtedly be pivotal in the Eagles' quest for success. For now, Philadelphia's fans and coaching staff can revel in the knowledge that their team is fortified by two of the finest tackles the NFL has to offer, a fact that does not escape Lane Johnson. When asked about Mailata's potential impediments, he wryly comments, "Hamstring or a f---ing gun," indicative of his confidence in their collective prowess.
Thus, under Sirianni's guidance, this high-caliber protection duo is set to continue anchoring the Eagles, embodying strength, skill, and an unwavering commitment to excellence that might just lead them to new heights. As Mailata's journey accompanies Johnson's enduring mastery, the Philadelphia Eagles are well-poised for a commanding season.