Rugby to NFL: How Lawrence Okoye and Jordan Mailata are Changing the Game

As the NFL continues to expand its horizons, it has begun to tap into unexpected talent from the world of rugby. The story of Lawrence Okoye and Jordan Mailata stands as a testament to how athletes can pivot from one sport to another, finding success in arenas they may have never considered. Lawrence Okoye, a rugby player, made headlines when he attempted to transition into American football. His journey, however, was short-lived. Despite showcasing his physical prowess, Okoye's time in the NFL was fleeting. He received just one pass during his brief stint with the San Francisco 49ers before being released in 2013. Okoye returned to rugby, yet his efforts marked an early example of the cross-sport transition that has become increasingly common as teams search for diverse talent. Jordan Mailata, on the other hand, offers a more inspiring narrative. The Australian native found himself in a similar situation after playing rugby league and reaching the Under-20s with the South Sydney Rabbitohs. Yet concerns about his conditioning loomed. It was at this juncture that a pivotal suggestion changed the course of his sporting career. Someone advised him to consider a sport that would better utilize his impressive size. Standing at 6 feet 8 inches and weighing 365 pounds, Mailata was encouraged to explore American football. Fast forward to 2018, and Mailata was enrolled in the NFL's International Player Pathway (IPP) program. His agility and speed, remarkable for a man of his stature, caught the eye of scouts. "His agility and speed for a person of his size, who hadn't grown into his full frame yet, it was so impressive," recalls Scotland-Williamson, a fellow participant in the IPP program. This impressive performance led to his drafting by the Philadelphia Eagles at the age of 20. Despite spending the first two seasons on the practice squad, Mailata's journey took a significant turn. He evolved into one of the NFL's premier offensive tackles, playing a critical role in the Eagles' journey to Super Bowl LVII in 2023. His transformation exemplifies how an athlete can redefine himself and thrive in a new environment, especially when given the right support and opportunity. Travis Clayton followed in Mailata’s footsteps as the second player drafted from the IPP program. Scotland-Williamson, who celebrated Mailata's wedding as a groomsman, believes that Clayton’s size—standing at 6 feet 7 inches and weighing 301 pounds—could position him favorably within the NFL. He points out that larger athletes often have an advantage in making a transition to American football later in their careers, as their unique body types are rare and highly sought after. The trend of rugby players transitioning to the NFL raises questions about how sports organizations can identify and nurture talent from various backgrounds. As teams continue to invest in these athletes, the expectation to see a return on that investment grows. "Being drafted means more," Scotland-Williamson notes. "People want to see their decision proved right because they've invested draft capital in you; they've stuck their neck out, so you'll get more patience." As the NFL explores new avenues for talent acquisition, the stories of Okoye and Mailata serve as both cautionary tales and inspiring examples. Their journeys highlight the complexities of pursuing greatness across different sports, showcasing the resilience and adaptability that define elite athletes. The future may very well see more rugby players making a name for themselves in the NFL, contributing to an exciting evolution of sport in our era.