Eagles Activate LT Jordan Mailata from Injured Reserve

Philadelphia Eagles Activate Starting Left Tackle

Mailata Returns to Boost Eagles' Offensive Line

The Philadelphia Eagles have activated starting left tackle Jordan Mailata from Injured Reserve, the team announced on Tuesday. Mailata had been sidelined since suffering an MCL injury in the Eagles' Week 8 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers, and his return is a major boost to Philadelphia's offensive line.

Mailata, a former Australian rugby player, has quickly established himself as one of the best young offensive linemen in the NFL. In 2021, he started all 17 games at left tackle and was named to the Pro Bowl as an alternate. He is a key part of an Eagles offensive line that has helped the team rank among the league leaders in rushing and scoring this season.

The Eagles have gone 4-3 in Mailata's absence, but they have struggled to protect quarterback Jalen Hurts at times. With Mailata back in the lineup, the Eagles should be much better equipped to keep Hurts upright and open up holes for running back Miles Sanders.

The Eagles are currently 8-3 and in first place in the NFC East. They host the Green Bay Packers on Sunday Night Football in Week 12.

Mailata's Injury and Recovery

Mailata suffered his MCL injury on a play in the second quarter of the Eagles' Week 8 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers. He was initially ruled out for the game, but he returned to the field in the second half and played through the injury.

Mailata underwent an MRI the following day, which revealed the MCL injury. He was placed on Injured Reserve on November 1st, and he was eligible to return to practice after four weeks.

Mailata returned to practice on November 29th, and he participated in both practices this week without any setbacks. He was officially activated from Injured Reserve on Tuesday, and he is expected to start at left tackle against the Packers on Sunday night.

Mailata's Return Is a Major Boost for the Eagles

Mailata's return is a major boost for the Eagles, who have struggled to protect Hurts in his absence. The Eagles have allowed 20 sacks in the seven games that Mailata has missed, which is tied for the most in the NFL during that span.

With Mailata back in the lineup, the Eagles should be much better equipped to protect Hurts and open up holes for Sanders. The Eagles are currently averaging 146.3 rushing yards per game, which is sixth in the NFL. With Mailata back, they could be even more productive on the ground.

Mailata's return is also a boost for Hurts, who has been sacked 20 times in the seven games that Mailata has missed. Hurts is a mobile quarterback who likes to extend plays with his legs, but he needs to be protected in order to be effective.

With Mailata back in the lineup, Hurts should be able to play more freely and make more plays with his legs. This could be a major factor in the Eagles' success going forward.