Rugby to NFL: How Jordan Mailata's Success is Inspiring Future Stars in Football

In recent years, the journey from rugby to American football has captured the attention of sports fans and analysts alike, especially as notable figures like Jordan Mailata and Lawrence Okoye navigate this challenging transition. Both players exemplify the unique intersection of athleticism and adaptability that can be found at this juncture of two physically demanding sports. Lawrence Okoye's foray into the NFL began with a single, fleeting opportunity. After being released in 2013, he returned to rugby, leaving behind what could have been a pivotal moment in American football. His story, while not one of enduring success in the NFL, highlights the struggles many athletes face when attempting to pivot to a completely different sport. In stark contrast is the story of Jordan Mailata, whose journey took a more promising turn. Coming from a rugby league background and having played for the South Sydney Rabbitohs' Under-20s, Mailata faced scrutiny over his physical conditioning. However, a pivotal suggestion to consider American football changed the trajectory of his career. At 6ft 8in and weighing 365 pounds, he possessed a physical stature that was perfectly suited for the NFL, a sport that increasingly values size and athleticism. His agility and speed, particularly for someone still growing into his frame, drew the attention of scouts and coaches. "His agility and speed for a person of his size... it was so impressive," remarked Scotland-Williamson, who trained alongside Mailata in the International Player Pathway (IPP) program in 2018. This program has become a crucial conduit for international talent to enter the NFL, and Mailata's success has paved the way for others. In 2018, Mailata was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles, and after spending two seasons on the practice squad, he emerged as one of the NFL's premier offensive tackles. His contributions were instrumental in leading the Eagles to the Super Bowl in 2023, demonstrating that transitioning from rugby to American football is not only feasible but can also yield exceptional results. The narrative surrounding Mailata's success also brings attention to Travis Clayton, the second player from the IPP program to be drafted. With Clayton standing at 6ft 7in and weighing 301lbs, his prospects appear promising, as noted by Scotland-Williamson. The trend of larger athletes transitioning later in their careers is encouraging, particularly in the trenches where size is a critical asset. "With the bigger body types in the trenches, you've got more chance of making a late transition [to the NFL]," Scotland-Williamson explained. "You can't really grow athletes that big, and they're hard to find." This sentiment reinforces the idea that teams are willing to invest in athletes who possess the right physical attributes, and in turn, provide them with the time and resources necessary to develop their skills. As the NFL continues to expand its reach globally, the stories of athletes like Mailata and Okoye serve as compelling reminders of the potential that exists across sports. While Okoye's journey may not have culminated in NFL success, Mailata's trajectory illustrates the possibilities that can emerge when talent, opportunity, and the right guidance converge. As more rugby players look to follow in his footsteps, the future of the NFL may very well be shaped by the athletic prowess bred in the rugby leagues of the world.