Jaelan Phillips is moving up in the world of football—going from one of the least successful teams to one of the top contenders—and he’s thrilled about the change.
After being traded from the Dolphins to the Eagles on Monday, just before the NFL trade deadline, Phillips couldn’t contain his enthusiasm following his first practice with Philadelphia on Thursday.
“I thought you were excited on the first day, but please talk to me now,” Phillips shared with reporters. “This is literally the biggest thing that has ever happened to me in my life. It’s just amazing.”
He continued, “The players are great and everyone is so welcoming. I really love the environment and atmosphere here.”
The Dolphins traded the linebacker, picked 18th in the 2021 NFL Draft, for a third-round draft pick in 2026.
At 26, Phillips has recorded three sacks and 25 tackles in nine games this season, and he is expected to play a significant role in Philadelphia’s defense.
Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni remarked, “A guy who can get close to the quarterback and is violent and explosive in the run game can cause a lot of chaos. It’s just how we want to play in that position.”
Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio added that Phillips already has an understanding of the system since they worked together in Miami last season, where he was having a standout year before an Achilles injury hindered his progress.
Phillips, who will become a free agent after this season, expressed feeling “blessed” to join a top-tier NFL team.
“I think everything is going well for me to come on board and be as productive as possible,” Phillips stated. “It seems like a great chance for me to compete and hopefully win another Super Bowl.”
With a smile, he concluded, “I’m very happy to be here and have this opportunity.”
