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Jordan Mailata shows he has some cowboy in him, wows Chris Stapleton with 'Tennessee Whiskey' cover
Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

It’s well known that Philadelphia Eagles offensive tackle Jordan Mailata has an incredible voice, as showcased on the A Philly Special Christmas album.

But who knew he had a knack for country music?

Wearing a cowboy hat and boots on Saturday night, Mailata delivered a rendition of "Tennessee Whiskey" backstage at a George Strait concert, right in front of none other than Chris Stapleton himself.

His cover impressed Stapleton, who responded with applause and a handshake. While Stapleton helped bring the song to wider fame with his 2015 version, the song was originally recorded by David Allan Coe back in 1981.

This isn’t the first time Mailata has showcased his talents beyond the football field. In 2023, he surprised guests at his wedding in Maui by serenading his wife, Niki Ikahihifo, with a heartfelt rendition of Stevie Wonder’s “Isn’t She Lovely.”

Jordan Mailata's Talents on the Field Mean A Lot to Philly

Mailata has become an indispensable part of Philly's offensive line, anchoring the left tackle position and protecting Jalen Hurts' blindside. Standing at 6'8" and weighing 365 pounds, the Australian native transitioned from rugby league to the NFL, a journey that began when the Eagles selected him in the seventh round of the 2018 draft. Since then, Mailata has started 69 of 74 career games, including all 12 he played in the 2024 season.

In 2024, Mailata's performance reached new heights. According to Pro Football Focus, he earned a league-best 95.8 overall grade among offensive linemen, excelling in both run blocking (94.9) and pass protection (91.7). He allowed just one sack and five penalties across 801 offensive snaps, ranking him among the most efficient tackles in the NFL. 

Mailata’s dominant play was a big reason the Eagles wrapped up their season with a 40–22 win over the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX. The victory also made him the first Australian to start and win a Super Bowl. Even though he didn’t get a Pro Bowl nod, he still earned Second-Team All-Pro honors for his standout performance.

Prior to the 2024 season, Mailata inked a three-year, $66 million contract extension in April 2024, securing his place in Philadelphia through the 2028 season. 

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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