Eagles Weigh Risks and Rewards of Retaining Jaelan Phillips

Talented pass rusher could be priority signing, but durability concerns linger

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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The Philadelphia Eagles must decide whether to re-sign defensive end Jaelan Phillips, who was acquired in a midseason trade and made a solid impact, but has an injury history that raises questions about his long-term viability. Phillips' talent and fit in the Eagles' defensive scheme make him a priority, but his inability to play full seasons is a calculated risk the team must weigh as they approach free agency.

Why it matters

The Eagles are in a critical offseason as they look to build on their Super Bowl-winning season. Retaining key players like Phillips is crucial, but his injury history could make a long-term deal risky. The team must balance his potential upside with the need for reliable, durable contributors.

The details

Jaelan Phillips was acquired by the Eagles in November 2025 to bolster their pass rush. He had 2 sacks in 8 games with the team after recording 3 sacks in 9 games with the Miami Dolphins earlier in the season. While his stats don't jump off the page, Phillips made an important impact with his pressure rates and fit within the defensive scheme. However, durability has been an issue throughout his career, as he has never played a full 16-game season. His career-high in sacks (8.5) came as a rookie in 2021, raising questions about whether he is ascending or regressing.

  • Phillips was acquired by the Eagles on November 3, 2025.
  • Phillips will turn 27 years old on May 28, 2026.

The players

Jaelan Phillips

A 26-year-old defensive end who was acquired by the Philadelphia Eagles in a midseason trade in 2025 after spending the first part of the season with the Miami Dolphins.

Nolan Smith

A young edge rusher on the Eagles' roster who has a bright future, but was behind Phillips on the depth chart.

Jalyx Hunt

Another young edge rusher on the Eagles' roster who has potential, but was also behind Phillips on the depth chart.

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What they’re saying

“Jaelan Phillips represents both an obvious decision and a calculated risk for the Eagles.”

— Geoffrey A. Knox, Author (yahoo.com)

“Everyone loves sacks, but again, that's only part of the story here. Phillips impacted more plays than the dents in his stat sheet may suggest. His pressure rates remained solid as the Eagles closed the show, and Vic Fangio consistently praised his discipline, effort, and ability to execute within the defensive scheme.”

— Geoffrey A. Knox, Author (yahoo.com)

What’s next

The Eagles must decide whether to sign Jaelan Phillips to a long-term deal or explore a shorter, one-year contract that would allow him to re-establish his value. His talent and fit in the defense make him a priority, but his injury history is a significant concern the team must weigh.

The takeaway

Jaelan Phillips' potential impact as a pass rusher makes him a key free-agent priority for the Eagles, but his durability issues represent a calculated risk the team must carefully consider as they look to build on their Super Bowl-winning season.