Eagles Trade for Phillips from Dolphins in Third-Round Pick Deal
The Philadelphia Eagles have made a significant addition to their defensive lineup by trading for outside linebacker Jaelan Phillips from the Miami Dolphins. According to sources, the Eagles will provide the Dolphins with a third-round pick in the 2026 draft as part of this transaction. The deal comes ahead of the NFL trade deadline, with the Eagles aiming to enhance their pass rush, which has struggled this season.
Eagles Aim to Strengthen Defense
This trade marks the Eagles’ third move in just one week as they look to improve their defensive performance. Currently, Philadelphia ranks 23rd in total defense and 24th in sacks across the NFL.
Recent Trades to Bolster the Roster
- Michael Carter II: Acquired from another team to aid the secondary.
- Jaire Alexander: Added in a separate deal to enhance the defense.
Jaelan Phillips, 26, has recorded three sacks in nine games this season, bringing his career total to 26 over five years with Miami. Initially drafted as the 18th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, he had an impressive rookie season with 8.5 sacks, a franchise record for Miami.
Injury Challenges and Comeback
Phillips faced significant injury setbacks, including an Achilles tear during a game against the New York Jets in 2023 and an ACL tear in 2024. Despite these challenges, the Dolphins exercised his fifth-year option, demonstrating their commitment to his potential. Phillips aims to revitalize his career with the Eagles under the guidance of defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, who previously coached him in Miami.
The Eagles have had to navigate injuries at the edge position, dealing with the offseason departures of Josh Sweat and Brandon Graham, a triceps injury for Nolan Smith, and the unexpected retirement of Za’Darius Smith. However, Graham’s return from retirement and the potential for Smith to play this week against the Green Bay Packers could offer the team much-needed reinforcements.
Future Outlook
With Phillips now joining the defensive lineup, the Eagles look to invigorate their pass rush. He will team up with players like Jalyx Hunt, Joshua Uche, and Patrick Johnson, bolstering a unit in need of strong performance as the season progresses.
The Dolphins, currently with a record of 2-7, are also considering trading other players, including Bradley Chubb and Matthew Judon, as part of a broader roster reevaluation following the ousting of general manager Chris Grier.
