Harrison Phillips Joins Jets, Set for 2025 Season
Last season, Harrison Phillips made headlines by sacking Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers while playing for the Vikings in London. Now, he’s gearing up for his first game with the Jets against the Steelers at MetLife Stadium on September 7th, 2025.
Phillips, an NFL veteran with eight years under his belt, started his career in the AFC East with the Bills for four seasons. He joined the Jets after being traded from Minnesota last week in exchange for a seventh-round pick in 2027. He practiced with the team on Monday.
At the Jets’ facility in Flowham Park, the 29-year-old Phillips expressed optimism, stating, “I really hope we can see that the arrows continue to be pointed out.” It appears that his addition, along with Jawon Briggs from the Browns, is intended to enhance a defensive line featuring Pro Bowl tackle Quinnen Williams, one of the best in the sport.
The Jets have struggled with their run defense during the preseason, so bringing in Phillips, who was a captain in Minnesota, could prove crucial. “When [Vikings coach] Kevin O’Connell notified me about the trade, he gave me a clearer idea of what’s happening here. I understand how much this city desires victory,” Phillips remarked.
Reflecting on the changes, he added, “There’s a real buzz among the players and staff with new faces coming in. It’s an adjustment, but peeling back the layers reveals a wonderful opportunity.” Although his last defensive season saw 56 tackles and only two sacks, Phillips is earning $3.7 million out of a $7.7 million final contract year.
This adjustment has also allowed the Jets to let veteran tackle Derrick Nnadi go to the Chiefs, where he had spent the first seven seasons of his career. Coach Aaron Glen praised the new acquisitions: “We’re excited about the opportunity to have these guys on board. Our identity centers around being tough, physical, and resilient.”
Glen also noted his familiarity with Phillips, saying he had seen him in action back in Detroit when he was a free agent. Phillips reciprocated that admiration, acknowledging Glen’s successful blueprint for building a competitive team. “What’s important is that there’s already a solid foundation here that doesn’t need a complete overhaul,” Phillips noted.
On another note, Briggs, who weighs in at 313 pounds, spent much of his rookie season on the Browns’ practice squad. He only appeared in six games, recording 13 tackles and one fumble recovery. “I’m really excited,” Briggs said, mentioning his college teammate Sauce Gardner. “I think we’ve got a great defense, and I’m eager to add my unique flair to it.”
