The Philadelphia Eagles are taking a significant step in strengthening their offensive line by opening a 21-day practice window for offensive tackle Jordan Mailata. Recovering from a hamstring tear that he sustained mid-season, Mailata is poised to bring much-needed solidity to the Eagles' front line as they consider his return.
Mailata's Injury and Recovery
The injury occurred during a pivotal matchup against the Cleveland Browns in Week 6. As the Eagles pushed for a scoring opportunity, Mailata found himself in an unexpected chase, trying to thwart Rodney McLeod’s advance on a blocked field goal attempt. The incident aggravated his hamstring, forcing him to exit the game and subsequently land on injured reserve, turning the fourth quarter into a tense wait-and-watch period for fans and management alike. Reflecting on the injury, Mailata was seen “sporting a huge sleeve over his left leg,” and mentioned to reporters that his hamstring was noticeably tight, underlining the severity of the setback not just for him but the team at large.
Current Alternatives and Performance
In Mailata’s absence, Fred Johnson has been the designated fill-in, taking over for four consecutive games. While Johnson’s effort to fill Mailata's shoes is commendable, the stats paint a clear picture of how the team misses Mailata's efficiency. Johnson has logged a 10.1% pressure rate over 109 pass-blocking snaps, conceding five sacks and allowing 11 pressures. In contrast, Mailata's performance prior to the injury showcased his capabilities on the field. Over 178 pass-blocking snaps, Mailata allowed just one sack and was responsible for seven pressures, boasting a pressure rate per dropback of 3.9%.
Deciding Mailata's Comeback
The Eagles now face a crucial decision: when to reinstate Mailata fully. Their next opportunity could be as early as the November 25 game against the Los Angeles Rams. Opting for a delayed return would provide Mailata with additional recovery time, aiming to minimize the risk of a re-injury. Regardless of the choice, introducing Mailata back into the lineup should bolster the Eagles’ offensive strategies, potentially turning the tide in crucial games as the season progresses.
Despite being sidelined, Mailata’s influence on the team's structure is palpable. He has shown immense resilience and dedication to return stronger, and his potential reintegration could be a game-changer for the Eagles as they navigate through the challenging NFL landscape ahead.