Philadelphia, PA
- The National Football League (NFL) has been working hard to expand its global footprint recently, and its efforts have paid off. New Zealand has become a key market for the NFL despite the country's strong ties to other sports. Read on as we examine this further.
Jordan Mailata: From Rugby Prospect to NFL Elite
Jordan Mailata is one of the crown jewels of the NFL's International Player Pathway (IPP) program. He was initially considered too big for rugby league, but that did not deter NFL scouts, who noted his physicality and raw talent.
The Philadelphia Eagles selected Mailata in the 2018 NFL draft, but his transition from rugby to American Football presented a steep learning curve. Renowned coach Jeff Stoutland helped refine his game. Mailata has grown in leaps and bounds, going from football novice to one of the best left tackles in the game.
He is the highest-rated offensive lineman this season. He can block runs and protect passes at the highest level, and he is a shining example of what the IPP program can achieve. His success has paved the way for other talented athletes from the southern hemisphere to shine in the league and will inspire a new generation to take up the sport.
Fuelling New Zealand's Interest in NFL Betting
The presence of several southern hemisphere players in the NFL has had a significant impact on the sports betting industry in New Zealand and other nations. New Zealand bookmakers have recorded a massive increase in NFL wagers, with players from Australia and NZ playing a key role in the growing popularity.
Betting platforms have wasted no time seizing the opportunity by offering NFL punts options such as player performance props, team futures, and live betting markets. These platforms also pitch the NFL to bettors interested in other sports, enticing them with mouth-watering offers. The best betting site offers include deposit bonuses and boosted odds.
Punters feel a personal connection to their compatriots, which makes the NFL more engaging. Watching players from the southern hemisphere participate in the NFL is a source of national pride and amplifies the league's appeal. The Kiwi betting boom shows how interest in the NFL has grown in far-flung countries. It has also been a catalyst for creating an exciting cycle that has led to more viewership and participation.
NFL's Global Markets Program Set to Boost International Fandom
The NFL's Global Markets Programme (GMP) is designed to help the league grow as an international brand. The scheme gives teams marketing rights in specific countries, allowing them to broaden their horizons beyond the United States.
The Eagles have established firm roots in New Zealand, Australia, and Ghana. They have staged events, run social media campaigns, and developed local partnerships to boost their profile. Mailata, a product of the IPP program, is one of the primary faces of this movement. His story is compelling and relatable to the fans.
Even though his work ethic played a role in his development, the NFL put a lot of work into polishing him for the Eagles. The GMP and IPP programs run concurrently, searching for the next breakout star. The GMP has been expanded to include specialist kickers and punters, opening a new avenue for athletes looking to join the NFL.
Almost 40 international players have joined NFL teams through the IPP, and 18 remain active on rosters. The GMP hopes to expand the talent pool and make the NFL more appealing to athletes worldwide. The program is helping the Eagles build a loyal fan base in the region, and the resultant fandom is good for the Philadelphia team and the NFL.
