Jordan Mailata Nears Return: Eagles Open 21-Day Practice Window
The Philadelphia Eagles have reason to be optimistic as they prepare for their impending showdown against the Washington Commanders. The team recently announced the opening of the 21-day practice window for offensive tackle Jordan Mailata, signaling his potential return from injury. Mailata, who has been sidelined since suffering a hamstring tear in Week 6, is eyeing a return to the field this Thursday.
Mailata's injury occurred during a game against the Cleveland Browns and has kept him on injured reserve since. The issue first surfaced during the second quarter, shortly after a Jake Elliott field goal. In what appeared to be an unfortunate sequence, Mailata further aggravated his hamstring while chasing down Browns safety Rodney McLeod on a blocked field goal attempt later in the same quarter. By the fourth quarter, the situation had escalated, necessitating his removal from play.
The absence of Mailata forced the Eagles to rely on Fred Johnson to fill the gap. Johnson has started in Mailata's place for four consecutive games, a period during which the Eagles have evaluated his performance with keen interest. Johnson has logged a 10.1% pressure rate in 109 pass-blocking snaps, a figure that includes the allowed five sacks and 11 pressures during this stretch. While Johnson has been a serviceable replacement, Mailata’s return is highly anticipated—the difference in their performances is notable. Mailata has only allowed one sack and seven pressures over 178 pass-blocking snaps this season, markedly outperforming Johnson with a pressure rate per dropback of just 3.9%.
In recent conversations, Mailata expressed optimism about his recovery, though he acknowledged past moments of discomfort. "Sporting a huge sleeve over his left leg last month, Mailata mentioned his hamstring was tight as he spoke to a few reporters about his condition." The prospect of his return offers a boost to an Eagles squad that aspires to reinforce its front line heading into a critical phase of the season.
While the immediate focus is on the game against the Commanders, the Eagles have the option to delay Mailata’s return until their November 25 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams. This decision would allow Mailata additional time to fully recover, minimizing the risk of re-injury. Such a move would ensure that Mailata is not only healthy but also in peak form for the challenges that lie ahead.
Having been tended to by trainers after his Week 6 injury, "Mailata was down for several minutes," symbolizing the severity of the impact it has had on both him and the team. His potential return is not just a testament to his resilience and determination but also a strategic boost for the Eagles as they look to solidify their standing.
As the Eagles prepare for possible scenarios, fans and teammates alike remain hopeful for Mailata's return. Whether his comeback occurs this Thursday or is postponed, his influence on the team's dynamics is undeniable. As the decision-makers within the Eagles' organization contemplate their next move, it's clear that Mailata's return is a pivotal piece of their strategic puzzle moving forward.