Eagles Taking Chance on Another Ex-Rugby Player After Mailata's New Deal

As the NFL is expanding its reach globally and international players find increased success in the league, teams continue to look outside the box to hit big on the next big prospect. Obviously, the Philadelphia Eagles are the ultimate success story when it comes to that the way they were able to find Australian rugby player Jordan Mailata and turn him into one of the best offensive tackles in the league.

Mailata has been the prime example for the success of the International Player Pathway Program. Now plenty of teams, most recently the Kansas City Chiefs with Welsh rugby star Louis Rees-Zammit, are looking for their own Mailata.

The Philadelphia Eagles are among them. According to the latest reporting by Andrew DiCecco, the Eagles are bringing another former rugby star to their rookie minicamp. Harry Mallinder, a member of the International Player Pathway Program, will join the Eagles with the hopes of making the final roster.

Eagles Looking to Sign Another Ex-Rugby Player

Mallinder was reportedly once considered the golden boy of English rugby, playing for Northampton Saints for eight years before moving to Japan to play professional rugby. He made it all the way to the national team as a versatile back, but he will try his chances in the NFL as a kicker and punter.

Mailata recently signed a massive three-year, $66 million extension that includes $48 million guaranteed and a $20 million signing bonus. Most ex-rugby league athletes, or the IPP players will have the success Mailata had in the NFL but it's nice to see the Eagles' top brass continuing to cast a wide net to find more talent across the globe.

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