The Eagles' Dynamic Duo: Mailata and Johnson Anchoring the Offensive Line
If the sustainability of an NFL offense lies in the strength and discipline of its line, then the Philadelphia Eagles are firmly grounded. Head coach Nick Sirianni's admiration for his top offensive linemen, Lane Johnson and Jordan Mailata, is no secret. He frequently lauds their exceptional skills and dedication, which have transformed the Eagles' offensive line into a formidable force.
The spotlight, however, seems to be intensely focused on Jordan Mailata this season. At just 27 years old, Mailata is carving out a name for himself as one of the most dominant tackles in the NFL. According to Pro Football Focus, Mailata boasts the highest grade among tackles with an impressive 94.9. His prowess extends to both run blocking and pass protection, where he ranks first and second, respectively, with grades of 94.2 and 91.5. "From coming from where he was, not playing any football to the best left tackle in football I think," reflects fellow lineman Lane Johnson. "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."
Mailata's remarkable achievements are not just a testament to his physical attributes but also to his relentless work ethic and the support from teammates like Johnson. In 260 pass-blocking snaps this season, Mailata has surrendered just one sack and eight pressures, culminating in a pressure rate per dropback of 3.1%. This admirable statistic places him tenth among all NFL offensive tackles.
A Perfect Counterpart in Lane Johnson
If Mailata exudes youthful energy and potential, Lane Johnson exemplifies refined expertise and precision. At 34, Johnson continues to set the standard for tackles across the league. His incredible pressure rate allowed per dropback is a mere 1.7%, the best in the NFL. Sirianni shares the admiration, praising Mailata for his progression over the years: "He's playing really good football. Yeah, he is powerful in the run game."
Johnson's acknowledgment of Mailata underscores a sense of mentorship and camaraderie present within the Eagles' camp. "He's on his way, and he knows it," Johnson notes, appreciating the growth and proficiency Mailata has shown. "We've all known it. We've seen him progress over the years. But yeah, he's, he's premier, he's elite." Such praise from a seasoned veteran like Johnson not only highlights Mailata's current success but also sets the bar for his future in the league.
An Elite Partnership Among Rivals
This dynamic partnership is by no means an accident or a solitary achievement. The Eagles stand as the only team in the NFL with both tackles rated in the top 10 by Pro Football Focus, an accolade they share with only the Denver Broncos. It is this blend of youthful zeal and veteran acumen that has anchored the offensive strategies of the Eagles, adding a layer of reliability and dominance that teams across the league aspire to replicate.
Sirianni's confidence in his offensive line is palpable, knowing his tackles can handle the physical and strategic demands. "Usually you have guys 370, 365, they can't move. He can do it all," Johnson affirms about Mailata, capturing the essence of a tackle who defies conventional limits.
In conclusion, as the Eagles navigate the complexities of an NFL season, the contributions of both Jordan Mailata and Lane Johnson remain invaluable. Their synergy not only bolsters the reputation of the Eagles' offensive line but also illuminates the path forward for linemen striving to reach the upper echelons of professional football.
Indeed, it is this blend of emerging talent and expert execution that transforms the foundation of a team. It is as if the Eagles have found their winning formula, encapsulated in the remarkable feats of their tackle duo, ready to pave the way for the challenges ahead.