NFL 2020: Former Rabbitohs under 20 Jordan Mailata impresses in starting debut for Philadelphia Eagles

Nathan Williamson

NFL 2020: Former Rabbitohs under 20 Jordan Mailata impresses in starting debut for Philadelphia Eagles image

Former Rabbitohs under 20 star Jordan Mailata has impressed in his starting regular-season debut for the Philadelphia Eagles, earning positive reviews in their 25-20 win over the San Francisco 49ers.

Mailata was inserted into the starting line-up at left tackle, replacing 9 time Pro Bowl and two-time All-Pro tackle Jason Peters after he suffered a toe injury.

Peters left a major hole in the Eagles offensive line for Mailata to fill, having been named in the NFL's team of the decade for the 2010s

MORE: Who is Jordan Mailata?

However, the 23-year-old had an immediate impact on the match, producing the all-important block to help quarterback Carson Wentz scramble for the first touchdown of the game.

The 348-pound (157kg) tackle wasn't flawless, giving up a crucial false start penalty as the Eagles looked set to drive down the field for points.

Despite this, his performance recieved widespread praise across social media, with former offensive lineman and 3x Pro Bowler Tra Thomas lauding his effort.

Mailata was not the only Australian in the match, with Cameron Johnson (Eagles) and Mitch Wishnowsky (49ers) lining up as the respective punters.

Johnson had a solid night with the boot, averaging 51.2 metres per punt with three inside the 20.

Wishnowsky also recorded four punts for an average of 44.3, with two punts landing inside the 20. 

 

Nathan Williamson