Jordan Mailata, once a construction worker in Sydney who spent his days demolishing McDonald’s locations, has transformed into a powerhouse on the football field. Weighing in at a staggering 365 pounds, this human wrecking ball is now one of the highest-paid offensive tackles in the NFL. As he stands on the brink of achieving an unlikely Super Bowl dream, Mailata’s journey is nothing short of remarkable.
From Australia to the NFL
At just 20 years old, Mailata left his home in Australia to chase a dream that seemed far-fetched at the time. He had little interest in American football, having only tuned into his first Super Bowl a decade ago for the halftime show. However, after being told he was too large to play rugby league, he decided to take a leap of faith and pursue an NFL career.
Mailata’s journey began with the NFL’s International Player Pathway program in Florida. This intensive 10-week course was designed to teach aspiring players the intricacies of American football. Despite never having played a competitive game, the Philadelphia Eagles took a chance on him, selecting him in the seventh round of the 2018 draft. It was a bold move, but one that has paid off tremendously.
Rising Through the Ranks
Mailata’s path to success wasn’t instantaneous. He had to wait until 2020 to make his first NFL start as an offensive tackle. Since then, he has become a vital part of the Eagles’ offense, tasked with protecting quarterback Jalen Hurts and creating running lanes for star rusher Saquon Barkley. His performance on the field has been nothing short of impressive, leading to a recent contract extension worth 100 million Australian dollars.
Reflecting on his journey, Mailata said, “I cannot believe how far I’ve come. I can’t believe I’m still here.” He acknowledges the risks he took when he decided to leave everything behind. “If it doesn’t work out, it’s enough to just go back to my odd jobs and chasing my rugby dreams,” he recalled. But thankfully, it has worked out beyond his wildest dreams.
Family Support and Sacrifices
Mailata’s success is not just his own; it’s a testament to the sacrifices made by his family. Growing up as one of five children in a Samoan household, he witnessed his parents work tirelessly to provide for their family. His mother worked 12 hours a day, six days a week, while his father juggled two jobs. Their dedication instilled in him a strong work ethic and the belief that anything is possible.
His parents have been his biggest supporters, waking up in the middle of the night to watch his NFL games. “I couldn’t have done it without my family. They were a little hesitant at first about the idea, but they came around,” Mailata said. Their unwavering support has been crucial to his success, providing him with a safety net should things not go as planned.
A Heartwarming Reunion
Mailata’s journey has not been without its challenges. Two years ago, he faced a heartbreaking Super Bowl defeat against the Kansas City Chiefs. The pain didn’t end there; shortly after the game, his father, Tupa’i, suffered a heart attack on the flight back to Australia and was placed into a medically induced coma. Fortunately, Tupa’i recovered and was able to attend Mailata’s wedding that summer, a moment that brought immense joy to the entire family.
In a touching moment, Tupa’i celebrated his 70th birthday by finally witnessing his son play in person after travel restrictions were lifted due to COVID-19. The emotional reunion was a tear-jerker, as Mailata drove to pick up his parents from the airport, ready to show them the city that had embraced him. “My dad was in for a shock when we went grocery shopping. We had a handful of fans stop by and say hi – my dad was shocked,” he shared with a laugh.
Looking Ahead to Super Bowl 59
Now, as Mailata prepares for the upcoming Super Bowl, he reflects on how far he has come. He has swapped his hard hat in Sydney for an American football helmet in Philadelphia, and he’s just one win away from achieving his career goal. The excitement is palpable as he gears up to compete on the biggest stage in sports.
As the Philadelphia Eagles aim for victory, Mailata’s story serves as an inspiration to many. It’s a reminder that dreams can be realized with hard work, determination, and the support of loved ones. With the Super Bowl on the horizon, fans are eager to see what this incredible athlete will accomplish next. Will he finally lift that coveted trophy and fulfill his Super Bowl dream? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: Jordan Mailata’s journey is far from over, and it’s already a story worth celebrating.
