Jordan Mailata Aims for Glory in Super Bowl LIX

NEW ORLEANS, La. — Jordan Mailata, the left tackle for the Philadelphia Eagles, is preparing for a significant moment in his career as the team prepares to face the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX on February 10, 2025. Mailata, a New Zealand citizen raised in Australia, stands at 2.03 meters and weighs 166 kilograms, making him one of the NFL’s most formidable offensive linemen.

This Super Bowl marks a rematch for the Eagles, who fell to the Chiefs in a thrilling 38-35 finale last season. The Eagles aim for redemption as they seek their second championship.

Mailata’s journey to the NFL is remarkable. Born in Sydney in 1997 to New Zealand parents, his life took a significant turn when his father moved the family to Australia. Despite spending over two decades in New South Wales, Mailata is proud of his Kiwi roots, holding New Zealand citizenship due to his parents.

Before joining the NFL, Mailata showcased his athletic talent in rugby league, where his performance caught the attention of the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs. An unexpected heart condition led to a brief hiatus from the sport, but he soon returned to join the South Sydney Rabbitohs. However, fitness issues hindered his career in rugby league.

In a life-changing decision, Mailata entered the NFL’s International Player Pathway Program in 2018, which supports athletes transitioning to American football. Despite having never played the game, his size and agility made him an attractive recruit. The Eagles selected him in the seventh round of the draft, believing in his potential.

Under the guidance of offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland, Mailata quickly developed into a premier player, earning a reputation as one of the top pass and run blockers in the league. Mailata’s hard work paid off, culminating in a three-year, $116 million contract extension last April.

Throughout his career, he has achieved impressive accolades, including being named an All Pro Second Team member and serving as a Pro Bowl alternate, although he often shares the spotlight with fellow offensive giants.

The upcoming Super Bowl presents a chance for Mailata to secure his first championship ring, an opportunity many fans and players dream of but few achieve. If successful, he would be among a select group, becoming the second Australian and the second Kiwi to win a Super Bowl.

Off the field, Mailata has showcased his talents as a singer, even competing in a television singing competition, “The Masked Singer.” This unique pursuit has garnered him a fan base beyond football, allowing him to express his Samoan heritage.

As he prepares for the game, Mailata remains motivated by his family and culture. After the NFC Championship victory, he shared a heartfelt moment with Washington Commanders linebacker Frankie Luvu, who encouraged him to represent their heritage on the grand stage of the Super Bowl.

The anticipation builds as Mailata and the Eagles prepare for kickoff against the Chiefs. Fans worldwide will be watching and hoping for a Cinderella story that seems destined for the silver screen.