New England Patriots - NESN.com
New England Patriots fans may be disappointed to see one of the NFL’s top available edge rushers get traded elsewhere before Tuesday’s deadline. On the other hand, the player loves his new destination.
The Miami Dolphins sent Jaelan Phillips to the Philadelphia Eagles for a third-round pick. Phillips goes from the 2-7 Dolphins to the 6-2 defending Super Bowl champions.
It’s an understatement to say Phillips is happy about his new team. The 26-year-old gushed about the Eagles on Thursday, per ESPN’s Tim McManus.
“I thought I was excited Day 1, talk to me now,” Phillips said. “This is literally the greatest thing that has happened to me in my whole life, probably. It’s just awesome. The guys are awesome. Everybody’s been super welcoming. I love the environment here. I love the vibe here.”
The Boston Sports Journal’s Mike Giardi claimed the Patriots “definitely” pursued Phillips, who tallied three sacks and 17 pressures in nine games before the trade. The former first-round pick began his career with 15.5 combined sacks in 2021 and 2022 before injuries limited him to 12 games the following two seasons.
Phillips leaves Miami for the first time in his career to join the Eagles, who have just 16 team sacks this season. He reunites with defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, who held the same job at Miami in 2023.
Amid much speculation, the Patriots didn’t add any edge rushers before the deadline. They at least won’t have to face Phillips when concluding the 2025 regular season against the Dolphins in Week 18.
