Jordan Davis Eagles: The Dominant Defensive Tackle Who Changed NFL History

Early Life and Rise to Football Stardom

Jordan Xavier Davis was born on January 12, 2000, in Charlotte, North Carolina, and his journey to NFL stardom is nothing short of remarkable. Standing at an impressive 6'6" and weighing 336 pounds, Davis didn't initially start with football – he was a basketball player at Hopewell High School before transferring to Mallard Creek High School as a junior, where he discovered his true calling on the gridiron.

The transition from basketball to football proved to be a game-changer. Davis's mother, Shay Allen, played a crucial role in his development, struggling to keep up with his increased appetite during his growth spurt and ensuring he had the nutrition needed to excel. Her dedication paid off when Davis committed to the University of Georgia, choosing the Bulldogs over prestigious programs like Clemson, Florida, Miami, and North Carolina.

Dominance at the University of Georgia

Davis's college career at Georgia was nothing short of spectacular. From 2018 to 2021, he established himself as one of the most dominant defensive tackles in college football history. His freshman year saw him record 25 tackles with 1.5 sacks, earning SEC All-Freshman team honors and Freshman All-American recognition from the Football Writers Association of America.

The pinnacle of his college career came during his senior season in 2021, when Davis recorded 32 tackles, two sacks, and even a rushing touchdown. Most importantly, he helped lead Georgia to their first national championship since 1980, defeating Alabama 33-18 in the 2022 College Football Playoff National Championship. His exceptional performance earned him the Chuck Bednarik Award and the prestigious Outland Trophy, cementing his legacy as one of college football's elite defensive players.

Georgia Career Highlights

• College Football National Champion (2021)
• Chuck Bednarik Award winner (2021)
• Outland Trophy winner (2021)
• Unanimous All-American (2021)
• First-team All-SEC (2021)
• Career stats: 91 total tackles, 7.0 sacks, 1 touchdown

Historic NFL Combine Performance

At the 2022 NFL Combine, Jordan Davis made history with one of the most impressive performances by a defensive lineman ever recorded. His 4.78-second 40-yard dash made him just the third player over 330 pounds to run under five seconds, joining an elite group that includes Dontari Poe (2012) and Greg Robinson (2014).

Perhaps even more impressive was his 10'3" standing broad jump, believed to be a record for a 300-pound player at the NFL Combine. These rare measurables earned Davis a perfect 10 on the Relative Athletic Score, showcasing his unique combination of size, speed, and athleticism that would make him a coveted first-round draft pick.

Philadelphia Eagles Career: From Rookie to Star

The Philadelphia Eagles selected Jordan Davis with the 13th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, making him part of a modern-day record 15 Georgia Bulldogs drafted that year. Davis signed a four-year, fully guaranteed $17 million contract, including a $9.55 million signing bonus, immediately becoming a key component of the Eagles' defensive line.

Rookie Season (2022)

Davis made an immediate impact in his rookie season, contributing as a rotational player before an ankle injury in Week 8 placed him on injured reserve. Despite the setback, he finished with 18 tackles and one pass defensed in 13 games, earning PFWA All-Rookie Team honors. He also helped the Eagles reach Super Bowl LVII, where they fell 38-35 to the Kansas City Chiefs.

Breaking Through (2023-2024)

The 2023 season saw Davis take on a larger role alongside former Georgia teammate Jalen Carter. He recorded his first NFL sack in Week 2 against the Minnesota Vikings and finished the season with 45 tackles, 2.5 sacks, one pass deflection, and one forced fumble. The 2024 season proved to be his breakout year, as he recorded 27 tackles, one sack, two pass deflections, and one fumble recovery during the regular season.

The Historic Blocked Field Goal That Defined a Career

September 21, 2025, will forever be remembered as "The Jordan Davis Game" in Philadelphia Eagles history. With the Eagles trailing 26-7 early in the third quarter against the Los Angeles Rams, the team mounted one of the most spectacular comebacks in franchise history, scoring the game's final 26 points.

With three seconds remaining and the Eagles holding a precarious 27-26 lead, Rams kicker Joshua Karty attempted a 44-yard field goal that would have won the game. Instead, Davis made the play of his career, blocking the kick and returning it 61 yards for his first NFL touchdown, sealing a thrilling 33-26 victory that sent Lincoln Financial Field into absolute pandemonium.

This moment not only showcased Davis's incredible athleticism for a 336-pound player but also demonstrated his clutch gene and ability to perform in the biggest moments. The play instantly became one of the most replayed highlights in Eagles history and cemented Davis's place in Philadelphia sports lore.

Career Statistics and Achievements

NFL Career Stats (Through Week 3, 2025)

• Total Tackles: 106
• Sacks: 4.5
• Forced Fumbles: 1
• Fumble Recoveries: 1
• Pass Deflections: 7
• Total Touchdowns: 1
• Games Played: 46

Major Achievements

• Super Bowl LIX Champion (2024)
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2022)
• Fifth-year option exercised by Eagles (2025)
• Fastest 40-yard dash for 330+ pound player since 2014
• Perfect 10 Relative Athletic Score at NFL Combine

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall and heavy is Jordan Davis?

Jordan Davis stands 6 feet 6 inches tall and weighs approximately 336 pounds, making him one of the largest and most athletic defensive tackles in the NFL.

What college did Jordan Davis attend?

Davis played college football at the University of Georgia from 2018-2021, where he won a national championship and earned multiple prestigious awards including the Chuck Bednarik Award and Outland Trophy.

When was Jordan Davis drafted by the Eagles?

The Philadelphia Eagles selected Jordan Davis with the 13th overall pick in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft.

What is Jordan Davis's most famous play?

Davis's most famous play is his game-winning blocked field goal return for a touchdown against the Los Angeles Rams on September 21, 2025, which sealed a 33-26 Eagles victory in dramatic fashion.

Has Jordan Davis won a Super Bowl?

Yes, Jordan Davis won Super Bowl LIX with the Philadelphia Eagles in the 2024 season, defeating the Kansas City Chiefs 40-22.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Excellence Continues

Jordan Davis has established himself as one of the premier defensive tackles in the NFL, combining rare size, speed, and athleticism to dominate opposing offensive lines. From his humble beginnings as a basketball player in Charlotte to becoming a Super Bowl champion and Eagles legend, Davis's journey exemplifies dedication, hard work, and natural talent.

His historic blocked field goal against the Rams will be remembered as one of the greatest individual plays in Eagles history, but it's just one highlight in what promises to be a long and successful career. With the Eagles exercising his fifth-year option and committing $12.9 million for the 2026 season, Davis remains a cornerstone of Philadelphia's championship-caliber defense.

As he continues to develop his skills and leadership abilities, Jordan Davis represents the future of the Philadelphia Eagles and stands as a testament to what can be achieved through perseverance and excellence. Eagles fans can look forward to many more years of dominant defensive play from their beloved #90.