The 2024 NFL season is set to be an exciting one for Australian football fans, as a growing number of Aussies continue to make their mark in America's biggest sporting league. From powerhouse offensive tackles to precision punters, these Australian athletes are redefining the game and bringing their unique skills to the forefront of the NFL. With players like Jordan Mailata anchoring the Philadelphia Eagles' offensive line, Michael Dickson and Cameron Johnston elevating the art of punting, and new faces like Tory Taylor joining the Chicago Bears, there is no shortage of talent to watch.
Jordan Mailata: Eagles’ New Anchor - Australian's in the NFL
Jordan Mailata, the Aussie giant, is all set to dominate the Philadelphia Eagles' offensive line in the 2024 NFL season. Fresh from a three-year, $100 million contract extension, Mailata is now the fourth-highest paid offensive tackle in the league. His contract cements his crucial role in the Eagles' lineup, making him a key player to watch as the Eagles prepare for their season opener against the Baltimore Ravens. This season, all eyes will be on Mailata as he continues to prove his worth, transitioning from a former South Sydney Rabbitoh to a star in American football.
Michael Dickson: Aiming for NFL Punting Perfection
Michael Dickson is ready to continue his rise in the NFL as one of the league's most explosive punters. After setting a franchise record with a 50.0-yard punt average in 2023, the 26-year-old Aussie is set to make 2024 his best season yet. Dickson's journey from an AFL player in Sydney to an NFL star with the Seattle Seahawks is a testament to his skill and determination. With his powerful leg and precise accuracy, Dickson could be the key to propelling the Seahawks to new heights this season.
Daniel Faalele: Baltimore Ravens' Aussie Giant
Daniel Faalele, the 6-foot-8, 172kg behemoth from Melbourne, is preparing to take on a new role on the Baltimore Ravens' offensive line in 2024. Drafted in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft, Faalele’s impressive size and athleticism make him one of the league's most intriguing prospects. This season could be career-defining for the Aussie, who has been working hard in the off-season to secure his spot as a starting right tackle. As the Ravens prepare to face the Kansas City Chiefs on September 5th, Faalele's performance will be pivotal to Baltimore’s success.
Mitch Wishnowsky: The Heart of the 49ers
Mitch Wishnowsky came close to becoming the first Australian to win a Super Bowl last season, but his journey continues. The San Francisco 49ers' punter is set to build on his stellar 2023 performance in the upcoming season. From his humble beginnings as a glazier in Australia to his current role in the NFL, Wishnowsky's rise is nothing short of inspirational. As he continues to balance his on-field duties with community involvement, Wishnowsky is a player to watch in 2024.
Cameron Johnston: A New Start with the Steelers
Cameron Johnston, another Aussie punter, is joining the Pittsburgh Steelers for the 2024 season. At 32, Johnston brings experience and consistency, having ranked sixth in the NFL for net punting average in 2023. The Geelong native continues to uphold Australia’s strong punting legacy in the NFL, following in the footsteps of compatriots like Jordan Berry and Sav Rocca. With a new chapter unfolding in Pittsburgh, Johnston is poised to make an impact.
Matthew Hayball: The Saints' Punting Duel
In a unique twist, two Australians, Lou Hedley and Matthew Hayball, are battling it out for the New Orleans Saints' punter position. This competition highlights the growing influence of Australian punters in the NFL. Hedley, entering his second season with the Saints, faces a challenge from newcomer Hayball, who brings a strong leg from his time at Vanderbilt. As they vie for the starting spot, the battle promises to be one of the most exciting storylines in the NFL's special teams this year.
Tory Taylor: New Punting Talent for the Bears
The Chicago Bears made a surprising move in the NFL draft by selecting punter Tory Taylor from Iowa in the fourth round with the 122nd pick. Taylor, originally from Melbourne, Australia, won the prestigious Ray Guy Award as the nation’s best college punter and was chosen despite the Bears having other pressing needs. Bears general manager Ryan Poles explained that Taylor's exceptional skills and ability to pin opponents deep in their territory made him a valuable asset. Taylor set an NCAA record with 4,479 yards on 93 punts, breaking an 85-year-old record. His career average of 46.3 yards per punt is the highest in NCAA history for punters with more than 250 punts. With Taylor’s impressive track record, the Bears are looking to gain a strategic edge through field position in the upcoming season.
Notable free agents and practice squad players
Laekin Vakalahi has never played a game of American football, but has been signed by the Philadelphia Eagles as part of their practice squad with an international player roster exemption. They'll be looking to develop another offensive line talent from Australia.
Defensive end Adam Gotsis, Australia's longest-serving active player, is currently a free agent. The 31-year-old made his NFL debut in 2016 and last played for the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2023.
Punter Lou Hedley was recently waived by the New Orleans Saints, with his next team yet to be determined.
The Jacksonville Jaguars have released tight end Patrick Murtagh with an injury designation after he broke his ankle during practice in early August.
Rookie tight end Thomas Yassmin, who went undrafted this year, was waived by the Denver Broncos.
Punter Arryn Siposs has been without a team since the Philadelphia Eagles released him in September 2023. He played in Super Bowl LVII before his release.
Support Your Aussies in the NFL!
As the 2024 NFL season kicks off, American Football Australia urges fans to rally behind our Australian stars who are making waves in the league. Whether it’s Mailata holding the line, Dickson booming punts, or Faalele redefining his position, there's plenty for Aussie fans to cheer about this season!
What games can I watch in Australia and New Zealand on ESPN?
Week 1:
Green Bay Packers vs. Philadelphia Eagles, 10:15am Saturday Sept. 7, ESPN 1
Jacksonville Jaguars vs Miami Dolphins, 3am Monday Sept. 9, ESPN 1
Pittsburgh Steelers vs Atlanta Falcons, 3am Monday Sept. 9, ESPN2
Dallas Cowboys vs Cleveland Browns, 6.25 Monday Sept. 9, ESPN
Los Angeles Rams vs Detroit Lions, 10.15am Monday Sept. 9, ESPN
New York Jets vs. San Francisco 49ers, 10:15am Tuesday Sept. 10, ESPN
Week 2:
Buffalo Bills vs. Miami Dolphins, 10.15am Friday Sept. 13, ESPN
New Orleans vs. Dallas Cowboys, 3.00am Monday Sept. 16, ESPN
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Detroit Lions, 3.00am Monday Sept. 16, ESPN2
Cincinnati Bengals vs. Kansas City Chiefs, 6.25am Monday Sept. 16, ESPN
Chicago Bears vs. Houston Texans, 10.15am Monday Sept.16, ESPN
Atlanta Falcons vs. Philadelphia Eagles, 10.15am Tuesday Sept. 17, ESPN
How can fans watch?
Fans can tune in to seven Week 1 and 2 games LIVE across ESPN and ESPN2, which are available via Foxtel, Kayo Sports, Fetch TV and SKY NZ, while you can also access these games via the ESPN App.
