In the world of professional football, the performance of offensive linemen often dictates the success of a team’s offensive unit. The Philadelphia Eagles have showcased a noteworthy testament to this with their top-tier offensive tackle duo: Jordan Mailata and Lane Johnson. Their contributions to the Eagles’ success this season have not gone unnoticed, particularly by head coach Nick Sirianni, who holds these linemen in high regard.
Exceptional Duo at the Helm
Nick Sirianni, in his role as the head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles, has not held back in expressing his admiration for his leading offensive tackles. “He’s playing really good football. Yeah, he is powerful in the run game,” Sirianni lauded, acknowledging the prowess these linemen bring to both the running and passing game.
The statistics back up Sirianni's praise. Jordan Mailata, at just 27 years old, has been graded as the highest-rated tackle by Pro Football Focus, earning an impressive grade of 94.9. Mailata’s performance this season is characterized by an extraordinary ability to both protect the quarterback and enable the running game, ranking first and second in run-blocking and pass-blocking, respectively, with grades of 94.2 and 91.5.
From Rookie to Elite
Lane Johnson, echoing the sentiment of Sirianni, has offered high praise for his fellow tackle, Mailata. "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 remarked. Indeed, Mailata’s journey from rugby player to NFL elite is both unique and inspiring, demonstrating remarkable growth and adaptability on the field.
This season, Mailata has allowed just one sack and eight pressures over 260 pass-blocking snaps, showcasing his ability to protect his quarterback effectively. With a pressure rate per dropback at 3.1%, Mailata ranks tenth among offensive tackles in the NFL in this metric, underscoring his reliability and skill.
Stalwart Partner in Crime
Meanwhile, Lane Johnson, at 34 years old, continues to be a pillar of strength on the Eagles’ offensive line. Known for his extraordinary ability to keep defenders at bay, Johnson commands the league's best pressure rate allowed per dropback at a mere 1.7%. His nimble footwork and technique ensure he remains one of the premier tackles in the league.
The Philadelphia Eagles are thus positioned uniquely, being the only team with both their tackles graded in the top 10 by Pro Football Focus. Alongside the Denver Broncos, they stand as the only teams with such an elite tandem of tackles, establishing their offensive front as a formidable unit.
Mastering the Art of Football
Johnson’s reflections on Mailata capture the essence of a player who defies conventional size expectations for mobility. "Usually you have guys 370, 365, they can't move. He can do it all," Johnson noted. This ability to move with agility despite his size not only sets Mailata apart but also enhances the Eagles' offensive capabilities substantially.
The camaraderie and mutual admiration between these two tackles are evident. “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," Johnson commented, recognizing the trajectory and impact of Mailata’s development.
A Bright Future Ahead
As the Eagles continue their campaign, the strength and tenacity of their offensive linemen will undoubtedly play a significant role in their pursuit of glory. With the likes of Lane Johnson and Jordan Mailata anchoring their line, the Eagles are not only fortified in their current endeavor but also poised to maintain this high standard of excellence for seasons to come.
The synthesis of talent, discipline, and recognition of potential has created a robust foundation for the Eagles. As the league witnesses the continued evolution of these players, the acknowledgment from their peers and coaches underscores the magnitude of their contributions to the game. The Eagles’ tackle duo serves as an exemplar of what top-tier line play can achieve, setting a standard for others to aspire to across the NFL.