Jordan Mailata had never played American football before he was drafted in 2018. Getty image
The Philadelphia Eagles’ locker room was buzzing with celebration as Jordan Mailata, draped in an Australian flag, took his seat for post-game interviews. The Kansas City Chiefs had been aiming for an unprecedented third consecutive Super Bowl victory, but it was the Eagles who made history.
Mailata, once a rugby league player with no American football experience, had just lifted the Vince Lombardi Trophy, becoming the first Australian to do so. His rise from an unknown athlete to an NFL champion is being hailed as one of the greatest stories in football.
From Hard Labour to the NFL
Mailata’s journey wasn’t easy. Growing up in Australia, he played for the South Sydney Rabbitohs’ Under-20 team while juggling multiple jobs. He worked in stage-building, demolition, and scaffolding, waking up at 4:30 AM to earn a living before heading to training.
Despite his dedication, doubts about his physical conditioning persisted. Then came a life-changing suggestion: “Why don’t you play a sport that values your size?” At 6'8" and 365 pounds, Mailata took a leap of faith and joined the NFL’s International Player Pathway (IPP) program in 2018.
The Turning Point
The IPP program provides international athletes a chance to prove themselves. Mailata’s raw athleticism caught the attention of Eagles’ executive Howie Roseman, who convinced offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland to scout him.
Initially skeptical, Stoutland quickly changed his mind. Watching Mailata move, he knew he was witnessing something special. "It was the best decision I ever made—other than marrying my wife," Stoutland admitted. The Eagles selected Mailata as the 233rd pick in the 2018 NFL Draft.
Earning His Spot
Mailata spent two seasons on the Eagles' practice squad, refining his technique. By 2020, he was ready for the big stage. Year after year, he improved, eventually becoming one of the league’s top offensive linemen.
His presence was crucial in the Eagles' 2023 Super Bowl run, though they fell short against the Chiefs. Undeterred, Mailata continued to elevate his game. In 2023, he signed a three-year, $66 million contract, cementing his status as one of the best in his position.
Super Bowl Triumph
On the biggest stage in American sports, Mailata delivered. His powerful blocking helped quarterback Jalen Hurts secure the game’s MVP title and running back Saquon Barkley set an all-time rushing record.
Despite his success, Mailata remains humble. “Saquon always says he can’t be great without the greatness of others. Maybe, just maybe, I had a small role in that,” he joked.
A Role Model for Future Athletes
Mailata’s unconventional path to the NFL is inspiring international athletes to chase their dreams. "Just give it a go," he encourages. "With belief in yourself and the right support, anything is possible."
At 27, he continues to grow under Stoutland’s mentorship. "Most players peak in college. Not him. There’s no limit to how great he can be," Stoutland said.
From a struggling rugby player to a Super Bowl champion, Mailata’s story is nothing short of extraordinary—a true testament to perseverance, talent, and belief.
