NFL icon Rob Gronkowski believes that the success of Australian player Jordan Mailata will boost the participation of Australians in American football. Recently, Mailata achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Australian to play for a winning Super Bowl team with the Philadelphia Eagles, who defeated the Kansas City Chiefs.
Mailata, originally from Bankstown, Australia, transitioned to the NFL in 2018 without prior experience in the sport. Over the years, he has developed into one of the league’s premier offensive linemen. Gronkowski, speaking to Wide World of Sports during Sportsbet’s Blue Diamond Stakes Day, lauded Mailata’s achievements and regarded him as an inspiring figure for aspiring athletes in Australia.
“Jordan has done an excellent job of representing Australia and is responsible for expanding the game’s footprint here,” Gronkowski commented. He noted that Mailata’s dedication paid off, particularly given that he was drafted despite having a rugby background with no American football experience. Gronkowski asserted that this speaks volumes about the scouts who recognised Mailata’s potential.
Mailata played a pivotal role during the Eagles’ championship season, providing crucial blocks that enabled star players like Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley to excel. Gronkowski highlighted the global implications of Mailata’s success, stating it offers a clear pathway for young Australians and Pacific Islanders aiming to enter the NFL.
“I believe Jordan has set a standard,” Gronkowski said. “He serves as an inspiration for younger players in the NRL or AFL, and his success will undoubtedly open doors for more Australians in the sport.” He emphasised the importance of Mailata’s journey, stating it gives upcoming athletes a blueprint to follow.
Looking ahead, Australia is set to host an NFL game for the first time in 2026, with the Los Angeles Rams confirmed to play in Melbourne. Gronkowski views the NFL’s expansion into new international markets as a positive development for the sport. “It’s massive for the growth of the NFL,” he remarked, pointing out that the league’s efforts to attract a worldwide audience have included events in Europe and Brazil.
In conclusion, Gronkowski’s admiration for Mailata underscores the potential for Australian athletes in American football and reflects the growing global presence of the NFL. As the league prepares to make its debut in Australia, Gronkowski’s ongoing collaboration with Sportsbet aims to generate excitement for the arriving NFL momentum.