In the world of the NFL, few positions garner as much respect and scrutiny as that of the offensive tackle. In recent times, the Philadelphia Eagles have found themselves flaunting not one, but two exemplary performers in this role. Head coach Nick Sirianni could not help but extol the virtues of his top-tier offensive linemen, and for good reason. Lane Johnson and Jordan Mailata are the sturdy bookends of an impressive offensive line, contributing significantly to the team’s success with their elite performances.
Dominance on the Field
Jordan Mailata, at just 27 years old, has become a revelation in the NFL. Initially an unknown to American football, he has skyrocketed to become the highest-graded tackle in the league according to Pro Football Focus, boasting an impressive grade of 94.9. His prowess in the game is further illustrated by leading all in run blocking with a 94.2 grade and ranking second in pass blocking at 91.5. The numbers don’t just stop there. Mailata's exceptional ability to protect the quarterback is evidenced by allowing only a single sack and eight pressures in 260 pass-blocking snaps, maintaining a pressure rate per dropback of merely 3.1%, placing him tenth among all NFL offensive tackles.
A Seasoned Veteran
On the other side of the line is the venerable Lane Johnson, who at 34 years of age, continues to set the standard for his position. His superlative performance has earned him the league's best pressure rate allowed per dropback at 1.7%, a testament to his unwavering consistency and skill. Johnson, who is often heralded by Sirianni as "the best tackle in the world," offers more than just physical prowess to the Eagles; he provides leadership and experience that is priceless to the cohesion and effectiveness of the offensive line.
Recognition and Respect
Having both tackles graded in the top 10 by Pro Football Focus places the Philadelphia Eagles in an enviable position. They share this rare accolade with only one other team, the Denver Broncos. The Eagles’ impressive duo represents not just the strength of their offensive line but also the holistic success the team enjoys under Coach Sirianni's guidance.
Voices from the Team
Lending his voice to Mailata's remarkable rise, Lane Johnson commented, "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." Such high praise from a peer highlights the respect Mailata commands within the league. Johnson further elaborates, "Usually you have guys 370, 365, they can't move. He can do it all." The physical attributes that Mailata brings to the table are not just confined to his monumental size, but, importantly, his agility and skill are what set him apart.
The Coach’s Perspective
Coach Nick Sirianni's admiration for his tackles is as evident in his commentary as in their performances on the gridiron. "He's playing really good football. Yeah, he is powerful in the run game," says Sirianni, vouching for Mailata's twin talents of run blocking and pass protection. This appreciation is not lightly given, as the Eagles' success hinges on these critical performances week after week.
As Lane Johnson aptly captures, Mailata is "on his way and he knows it. We've all known it. We've seen him progress over the years. But yeah, he's premier, he's elite." Such progression from a player unfamiliar with football until a few years ago, to being described as "premier" and "elite," is a narrative of evolution and hard-earned mastery. With a sprinkling of humor and realism, Johnson adds, "Hamstring or a f---ing gun," referencing the only things that might pose a challenge to Mailata’s performance, emphasizing the towering figure’s resiliency and strength.
The tales of Mailata and Johnson are not just about individual excellence but are emblematic of what makes the Philadelphia Eagles formidable. Under the discerning gaze of Coach Sirianni, this duo continues to tackle challenges and set a benchmark for others to aspire to in the NFL.