Eagles Snag Jaelan Phillips from Dolphins in Deadline Deal: Boost for Philly's Pass Rush
The Philadelphia Eagles added pass-rush depth today with a trade for Miami Dolphins outside linebacker Jaelan Phillips ahead of Tuesday's NFL deadline. ESPN's Adam Schefter reported the deal, which sends a 2026 third-round pick to Miami for the 26-year-old. This is Philly's third acquisition in a week as the Super Bowl defenders target edge improvements.
Phillips bolsters a unit ranked 23rd in total defense and 24th in sacks after nine games. He reunites with Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, his 2023 coach in Miami where Phillips posted 6.5 sacks in eight appearances.
The move comes as Miami sits at 2-7 following the recent dismissal of general manager Chris Grier. The Dolphins may shop other rushers like Bradley Chubb and Matthew Judon. Phillips, the 2021 No. 18 overall pick, set a Miami rookie record with 8.5 sacks but has dealt with injuries including a 2023 Achilles tear and a 2024 ACL injury in Week 4.
His advanced stats remain strong: eighth in pass-rush win rate and 12th in pressure rate among edge players. Miami picked up his fifth-year option, signaling belief in his recovery. For the Eagles, Phillips offers scheme familiarity and youth next to Josh Sweat and Nolan Smith.
Jaelan Phillips makes a powerful entrance onto the pitch, storming through dramatic smoke to energize the crowd.
Phillips' Career Arc: Early Promise Meets Injury Setbacks
Phillips made waves as a Dolphins rookie with explosive speed against quarterbacks. Recurring hamstring issues and major ligament tears have limited him, holding 2024 output to three sacks over six starts. At 26, his quickness aligns with Philadelphia's developing front.
Cameron Wolfe of NFL Network noted the synergy before the trade. "I'm told Vic Fangio thinks highly of Phillips from their year together in Miami (2023). He would help fill Eagles need for another pass rusher." Fangio's aggressive schemes may revive Phillips' 26 career sacks, easing the Eagles' league-low 15 this season.
Miami shifts to rebuild mode after a dismal stretch, their worst since 2011. The Phillips deal provides draft flexibility without salary complications, as his $13.3 million 2025 base moves to Philadelphia.
Eagles' Active Deadline: Third Deal Fuels Title Push
Philadelphia's recent trades – including a cornerback and line help – signal all-in intent at 6-3. They seek the NFC's top spot, but pass defense ranks 24th in points allowed, prompting urgency. Phillips aids matchups against Dallas and Washington.
Miami's struggles around Tua Tagovailoa prompt a roster reset. Potential departures like Chubb could follow, reshaping their defense further.
Fans on social media see Phillips as the spark for Jalen Hurts' group, adding chaos up front.
Cap Considerations: Low-Risk Bet on Phillips' Rebound
The trade's value lies in salary structure: Phillips' $13.3 million 2025 salary fits Philadelphia's $28 million cap projection, per OverTheCap. With no guarantees past this year, risk stays minimal, while bonuses link pay to performance.
This approach is asset arbitrage in the NFL – swapping draft futures valued at $5-8 million for output that avoids $10-15 million in free-agent costs next year. Fans benefit from stable pricing; big external signings often raise concessions 5-10% to balance books.
According to analysis reviewed by Finance Monthly, rebound trades like this deliver 30% better return on investment for playoff teams, given Phillips' metrics. A 2023 similar edge deal saved an anonymized franchise $12 million over two seasons, supporting key extensions during cap growth.
Looking ahead, a healthy Phillips could command $20 million annually in 2026 free agency, giving Philly leverage. Bettors should watch his sack props; the Eagles' system raises success rates 25% for newcomers, per PFF. Use Rotowire's injury tracker for updates – recoveries signal 15% edges in futures before Week 10 odds lock.
Jaelan Phillips stays focused and fierce on the field, helmet and gum shield in place, ready to make a play.
Sideline Buzz: Top Questions on the Phillips Trade
What Did the Eagles Send to Dolphins for Jaelan Phillips?
A 2026 third-round pick – Philadelphia's third move this week to sharpen their defense for another ring.
How Does Jaelan Phillips Match Vic Fangio's Eagles Defense?
Perfect reunion: He racked 6.5 sacks in Fangio's 2023 Miami setup over eight games, ready for Philly's pressure plays.
What Is Jaelan Phillips' Net Worth in 2025?
About $8 million, tied to his $13.3 million option year and over $25 million in career NFL pay.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jaelan Phillips |
| Age | 26 |
| Position | Outside Linebacker |
| Current Team | Philadelphia Eagles |
| Former Team | Miami Dolphins |
| NFL Draft | 2021, 1st Round, 18th Overall Pick |
| Career Sacks | 26 (over 5 seasons) |
| Current Season Sacks | 3 in 9 games |
| Injury History | Torn Achilles (2023), ACL tear (2024) |
| Trade Details | Acquired by Eagles from Dolphins for a 2026 3rd-round pick |
| Reunion with Coach | Vic Fangio, Eagles Defensive Coordinator & former Miami DC |
| Team Defense Ranking | Eagles: 23rd in total defense, 24th in sacks (pre-trade) |
| Financial Angle | Phillips represents a calculated investment balancing salary cap cost, performance potential, and future free-agent value. Acquisition is low-cost trade using draft capital for potential high return. |
| Notable Metrics | 8th among linebackers in pass rush win rate, 12th in pressure rate |
