It's been an up and down year with injuries for the Philadelphia Eagles. But this week, fans should be buzzing with excitement as the starting left tackle, Jordan Mailata, returns to the field after being on injured reserve for the past four games. With the Eagles set to face off against the Washington Commanders on Thursday night in a pivotal NFC East clash, Mailata's return could not come at a better time.

Mailata's injury, a hamstring strain suffered in Week 6 during the Eagles' win over the Cleveland Browns, left a void on the offensive line. Backup tackle Fred Johnson stepped up to fill Mailata's spot, and the team didn't miss a beat. But there's no denying that Mailata's return will bring a boost to the offense.

The 24-year-old Australian, who was a former rugby player, has made a name for himself in the NFL. Despite having no prior football experience, Mailata impressed coaches and fans alike with his size, strength, and agility. He quickly earned a spot on the Eagles' roster and has been a key player on the offensive line ever since.

The 21-day practice window for Mailata opened on Monday, signaling that he is ready to return to the field. This is a positive sign for the Eagles, who have been struggling with injuries all season.

This will be crucial in the upcoming game against the Commanders, who have a strong defense and will be looking to put pressure on Hurts.

Mailata's return not only brings a boost to the Eagles' offense, but it also adds depth to the team's roster. With Johnson stepping up in Mailata's absence, the Eagles now have two reliable left tackles who can rotate as needed. This will be especially important in the later part of the season, as the team looks to secure a playoff spot.

But it's not just Mailata's physical abilities that make him an essential player for the Eagles. His positive attitude and strong work ethic have also made him a fan favorite. Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks in his football career, Mailata has never given up and has always worked hard to improve his game. This mindset has earned him the respect and admiration of his teammates and coaches.

The Eagles will need all hands on deck for their upcoming game against the Commanders.  A win on Thursday night could give them the edge they need to secure a playoff spot in a tight division race. And with Mailata's return, the Eagles' chances are looking even better.