This is an absolute Massive effort for an Aussie kid - the copetition to make top the NFL is almost impossible with many talented young Americans unable to get there after playing from 5 yo...even those with ability struggle to make the jump after playing in prestigous college football...
For an Aussie kid at 20 to head over and be preparing as a starter for Philly Eagles round 1 is crazy.
Congrats to big Jordan and though a big Seattle Seahawks supporter - wish him all the best and will keep an eye on his progress with keen interest.
STORY BELOW
In 2017, a 20-year-old rugby league junior packed his bags and headed to the airport with a one-way ticket and a dream. A dream that for many Australians before him, would remain just that, a dream, never to see the light of day.
At 140 kilos and 10% body fat, the monster athlete had his NRL hopes crushed after being told he would still need to lose 20 kilos. Instead, he took his dreams of playing in the NFL, and set off for the States.
He made his way through the International Player Pathway Program, where his intriguing physical attributes made him a raw project for NFL scouts. He impressed, and quickly, becoming a shock late Draft pick for the Eagles in 2018.
Seventh round Draft picks, particularly if you're an Aussie who knows next to nothing about American football, rarely make the grade. It's a lottery.
And Jordan Mailata has just cashed in.
Today he was named the starting left tackle for the Philadelphia Eagles, one of the sport's most important and nuanced positions. You'd know it from The Blind Side; the left tackle is a quarterback's protector, confidant and best friend.
He's an NFL starter. And in a few months' time, he'll probably be a very rich one, too.
Dream big, kids. You could just be the next Jordan Mailata
For an Aussie kid at 20 to head over and be preparing as a starter for Philly Eagles round 1 is crazy.
Congrats to big Jordan and though a big Seattle Seahawks supporter - wish him all the best and will keep an eye on his progress with keen interest.
STORY BELOW
In 2017, a 20-year-old rugby league junior packed his bags and headed to the airport with a one-way ticket and a dream. A dream that for many Australians before him, would remain just that, a dream, never to see the light of day.
At 140 kilos and 10% body fat, the monster athlete had his NRL hopes crushed after being told he would still need to lose 20 kilos. Instead, he took his dreams of playing in the NFL, and set off for the States.
He made his way through the International Player Pathway Program, where his intriguing physical attributes made him a raw project for NFL scouts. He impressed, and quickly, becoming a shock late Draft pick for the Eagles in 2018.
Seventh round Draft picks, particularly if you're an Aussie who knows next to nothing about American football, rarely make the grade. It's a lottery.
And Jordan Mailata has just cashed in.
Today he was named the starting left tackle for the Philadelphia Eagles, one of the sport's most important and nuanced positions. You'd know it from The Blind Side; the left tackle is a quarterback's protector, confidant and best friend.
He's an NFL starter. And in a few months' time, he'll probably be a very rich one, too.
Dream big, kids. You could just be the next Jordan Mailata
