Exclusive: Which Opponents Give Eagles’ Jordan Mailata Nightmares on NFL Turf?

Fearing rivals is a common sentiment among athletes, and it’s no different for Jordan Mailata. The Philadelphia Eagles offensive tackle exclusively chatted with EssentiallySports, where he opened up about his apprehensions regarding certain NFL players while discussing the major upcoming season of the NRL Telstra Premiership rugby game in Las Vegas.

As Australian rugby is about to grace American soil for the first time with some exciting rules on March 2, 2024. The former Rabbitohs player Mailata shared some thrilling news for the fans out there. Besides this, the 26-year-old discussed his fears, informing who could give him “nightmares” on the NFL field.

Whose names Jordan Mailata called out?

In an exclusive talk with EssentiallySports, Jordan Mailata disclosed the names of four NFL players who can bring him significant fear. The Eagles’ star OT was asked to name the players (specifically any D-linemen), who could actually give him tough competition, if he would have been facing them. To which Mailata responded with a few names. The 26-year-old said, “I mean dude, Aaron Donald, Micah Parsons up there, man. He’s not big, he’s not strong, but the dude is so technique-driven and Micah gives me nightmares.”

Mailata further added, “Miles Garrett, like you need help again with these guys. Like these guys are premier edge rushers like Aaron Donald. Even if you look on the inside, like, Vita Vea is one big dude. I don’t know how our guards do it, blocking him all day. But, dude, those guys will give me nightmares.”

There is no doubt that players like Donald, Parsons, Garrett, and Vea are among the strongest and the best top tackles or edge rushers in the league. Especially witnessing their performance during the 2023 season.

Is the fear real for Mailata?

According to Fox Sports, among top 10, Aaron Donald was ranked one in the NFL defensive tackles of this season. He continues to be the epitome of excellence, with an impressive record of nine Pro Bowl selections and three DPOY awards. Donald has accumulated a staggering 103.5 sacks and leads the league in tackles for loss since entering the NFL in 2024. While his ability to rush the passer is outstanding, Donald’s contributions extend far beyond, making him a versatile and invaluable asset for the Cowboys.

Vita Vea is ranked 10th on the list. Though only earning one Pro Bowl nod in five years, he plays a crucial role in the defensive front of the Buccaneers. His impact goes beyond being a run-stopper, evident in his 6.5 sacks 2022 season and the early success in the last season.

Besides them, Micah Parsons, in his role with the Cowboys, showcases versatility akin to Donald. He is ranked second in the top 10 edge rushers list by Fox Sports. While excelling as a pass rusher, Parsons is also adept at reading offenses and swiftly navigating the field. His sideline-to-sideline speed and ability to disrupt opposing quarterbacks make him a standout contributor.

Read more: Exclusive: Jordan Mailata Wants to Keep ‘Tush Push Secrets’ Close to His Chest With NFL Undecided Over Eagles’ Staple Play

Finally, Myles Garrett, standing at an imposing 6 feet 4 inches, and 270 pounds, is a defensive end known for his unique power to defend both the run and the pass. His ability to anchor the defensive line was evident with an impressive 16 sacks and 60 tackles in the previous season. Garrett, who ranks at number 3 on the list of the edge rushers, physically presents a challenging matchup every time in a game.

These defensive stalwarts bring a blend of versatility, power, and skill. That’s the reason they are known to be as the pivotal players of the league, and are a nightmare to Jordan Mailata .

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