Philadelphia Eagles Shine Under the Stellar Performances of Their Offensive Linemen
The Philadelphia Eagles are enjoying a remarkable season, thanks largely to the outstanding performances of their offensive line, particularly their tackles, Jordan Mailata and Lane Johnson. Head coach Nick Sirianni has never hesitated to express his admiration for this duo, emphasizing the pivotal role they play in the Eagles' success.
Sirianni describes Mailata's journey from a novice in American football to possibly "the best left tackle in football." Mailata, who hails from Sydney, Australia, has quickly become a force to reckon with in the NFL. At just 27 years old, he has achieved an impressive Pro Football Focus grade of 94.9, the highest for any tackle in the league.
Mailata's achievements aren't just confined to a high overall grade. He leads the league in run blocking with an outstanding grade of 94.2 and ranks second in pass blocking at 91.5. His ability to maintain solid protection is further emphasized by his minimal pressure statistics — just one sack and eight pressures allowed in 260 pass-blocking snaps this season. His pressure rate per dropback, a mere 3.1%, places him tenth among all NFL offensive tackles.
Johnson, on the other hand, at 34 years old, brings veteran poise and protection to the line. He has earned Sirianni’s praise as "the best tackle in the world," and it is not without reason. Johnson commands the league's best pressure rate allowed per dropback at an extraordinary 1.7%. His combination of experience and skill has been crucial in maintaining the Eagles' offensive stability.
The dynamic presence of these two players has set the Eagles apart, making them the only team in the NFL to have both of their starting tackles graded within the top 10 by Pro Football Focus. Such recognition underscores the competitive advantage their linemen provide on the field.
Nick Sirianni elaborated on Johnson's strengths, reflecting on Mailata’s capabilities and growth by noting, "Usually you have guys 370, 365; they can't move. He can do it all." The ability to blend size with agility is a rare combination, and Mailata has capably demonstrated both. Sirianni further remarked on Mailata's prowess in maintaining a powerful presence in the run game.
Echoing Sirianni’s sentiments, Lane Johnson shared his views on Mailata, stating, "From coming from where he was, not playing any football to the best left tackle in football I think... we've seen him progress over the years. But yeah, he's premier, he's elite."
Johnson’s faith in Mailata's abilities is reiterated, both on and off the field, portraying a bond of confidence and respect between the two. According to Johnson, Mailata's only conceivable hurdles could be "a hamstring or a f---ing gun," a playfully frank testament to the tackle's formidable presence.
In the landscape of the NFL, where exceptional tackles are a keystone of any successful franchise, the Eagles' dual aces stand out. With the Denver Broncos being the only other team able to boast similarly lauded tackles, the Eagles’ edge is palpable, aiding their strides toward heightened successes this season.
The prowess and protection provided by Johnson and Mailata not only resonate within the Eagles' camp but also reverberate throughout the league, emphasizing the significance of their contributions. Under the leadership of Sirianni and with the elite performances of their linemen, the Philadelphia Eagles continue to soar, driven by an offense that few can match in strength and precision.