Jordan Mailata, who was just 18 when he watched Beyoncé perform at the 2016 Super Bowl, has come a long way from his rugby league roots in Bankstown. Unfamiliar with American football, he watched as the Denver Broncos triumphed over the Carolina Panthers. Fast forward ten years, Mailata is now on a remarkable $100 million contract and poised to become the first Australian to participate in two Super Bowls as his Philadelphia Eagles challenge the Kansas City Chiefs for a third consecutive title.
Mailata’s journey began in 2017 when he opted to leave rugby league and pursue football. Working various odd jobs, he relocated to Florida to enrol in the NFL’s International Player Pathway, a rigorous training programme. His impressive stature at 203cm and 166kg caught the attention of the Eagles, who drafted him in 2018.
Despite starting his football career later than most—while his teammates had been playing since childhood—Mailata has quickly established himself as one of the finest left tackles in the game. His success story is celebrated by teammates and coaches alike, demonstrating the exceptional resilience and talent he possesses. If the Eagles succeed, Mailata will not only be the first Aussie to play in a winning Super Bowl but will mark a historical achievement in Australian NFL.