The Miami Dolphins traded edge rusher Jaelan Phillips to the Philadelphia Eagles for a 2026 third-round pick ahead of Tuesday's NFL trade deadline. Phillips, a pending free agent, recorded 25 tackles and three sacks in nine games this season. The move bolsters Philadelphia's pass rush while giving Miami draft capital for a rebuild.
Trade Details
The Dolphins sent Phillips, their former first-round pick, to the Eagles in exchange for Philadelphia's own 2026 third-round selection, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported. This marks the Eagles' third defensive acquisition in the past week, following trades for cornerbacks Jaire Alexander from the Ravens and Michael Carter II from the Jets. Phillips reunites with former Dolphins defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, now in Philadelphia, where he coached Phillips in 2023 before an Achilles injury sidelined him.
Phillips' Impact and Injury History
At 26, Phillips has shown elite potential but has been limited by injuries, playing just 12 games over the past two seasons due to an Achilles tear in 2023 and an ACL injury in 2024. In 2025, he appeared in all nine games, contributing three sacks and 25 tackles. Prior to injuries, Phillips amassed 22 sacks in his first 2.5 seasons with Miami.
Implications for Both Teams
Philadelphia, at 6-2 and leading the NFC East, addresses a pass-rush need after ranking tied for 24th with 16 sacks. General manager Howie Roseman emphasized roster enhancement, stating, "We're going to do our best to put together the best team that we possibly can." For the 2-7 Dolphins, fresh off firing GM Chris Grier, the trade provides a third-round pick amid a rebuild. Interim GM Champ Kelly acted quickly, with interest also reported in players like Bradley Chubb and Jaylen Waddle.
The trade occurred three days after Miami parted with Grier, signaling a shift toward accumulating assets. Phillips is in the final year of his rookie contract, making him a rental for the Eagles, who could gain a compensatory pick if he signs elsewhere in free agency.