Tim McManus
PHILADELPHIA — New Eagles edge rusher Jaelan Phillips couldn't cover how fired up he was after his first observe together with his new workforce Thursday.
“I assumed I used to be excited Day 1, speak to me now,” he mentioned. “That is actually the best factor that has occurred to me in my entire life, most likely. It is simply superior. The fellows are superior, all people's been tremendous welcoming. I really like the atmosphere right here. I really like the vibe right here.”
Phillips was acquired from the Miami Dolphins on Monday earlier than the NFL commerce deadline in change for a 2026 third-round draft choose. The 6-2 Eagles additionally traded for defensive backs Michael Carter II and Jaire Alexander, who each practiced Thursday.
Phillips is anticipated to be a key a part of the sting rotation and bolster a cross rush that ranks tied for twenty fifth within the NFL with 16 sacks.
“Explosive participant, capable of get to the quarterback, violent within the run recreation, can create numerous disruption,” coach Nick Sirianni mentioned. “Simply numerous how we wish to play that place. [Defensive coordinator] Vic [Fangio] having familiarity with him is clearly massive. It takes away a few of that studying curve of on the point of go.”
Phillips performed beneath Fangio in 2023 when Fangio was the defensive coordinator in Miami and was within the midst of a profession yr earlier than tearing his Achilles. On Thursday, Phillips talked about the liberty Fangio's scheme offers so cross rushers can “simply pin our ears again and have that aggressive dashing mindset.”
Phillips, a 2021 first-round select of UCLA, has 26 profession sacks over four-plus seasons. He joins an edge group that's anticipated to get Nolan Smith Jr. again from a triceps harm within the close to future and lately welcomed again Brandon Graham from a brief retirement. The group additionally options Jalyx Hunt and Joshua Uche. Fangio ought to have loads of choices for Monday night time's key matchup towards the Inexperienced Bay Packers.
“I feel the whole lot is matching up for me to come back in and attempt to be as productive as attainable,” mentioned Phillips, who's a free agent on the finish of the season. “Clearly, I can be on a contender, hopefully going and profitable one other Tremendous Bowl. I am very blessed to be right here and have this chance.”
