The Philadelphia Eagles made another bold move before the November 4 trade deadline. The team acquired edge rusher Jaelan Phillips to strengthen a weak spot. This story explains why the Eagles made the gamble and how Phillips’ injury history could shape their Super Bowl hopes.
The Eagles traded a 2025 third-round pick to Miami for Phillips. They hope his pass-rushing ability will immediately boost a defense under pressure. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio worked with Phillips in Miami, adding confidence to the decision.
Sources: Miami is trading edge rusher Jaelan Phillips to the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for a 2026 third-round pick.
This is the third trade the Eagles have made in the past week. They now have added Phillips, CB Jaire Alexander and CB Michael Carter. pic.twitter.com/orXU4gKnwg
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 3, 2025
Phillips has struggled with injuries, missing 25 games over the past two seasons. He has two sacks this year but leads the Dolphins in quarterback pressures. Philadelphia believes he can make an instant impact.
The team has faced major losses at edge rusher. Nolan Smith tore a triceps in Week 3 and will not return until Week 10. Veteran Za’Darius Smith retired unexpectedly, and Josh Sweat signed with Arizona in free agency. Phillips fills a hole that has been a problem all season.
Phillips’ path has been unusual. A moped accident in 2018 forced a temporary retirement. Injuries limited his early college years. He returned to dominate at the University of Miami, earning All-American honors and proving his talent at every level.
Phillips impressed early in the NFL. Over two seasons he had 15.5 sacks and 41 quarterback hits. His 2023 season ended with a torn Achilles, and a Week 4 return in 2024 ended with an ACL injury. Fans now wonder if the Eagles are taking too big a risk on a player with a history of injuries.
Despite the risks, the Eagles keep options open. Reports say the team still holds multiple 2026 draft picks, giving room for future trades. Management believes Phillips can stay healthy and contribute immediately, making this a high-stakes move for the season.
What Comes Next
Following the Eagles’ trade for Jaelan Phillips, the immediate focus is on integrating him into the defensive rotation to provide a pass-rushing boost.
Phillips is in the final year of his contract, meaning the Eagles will need to decide this offseason whether to re-sign him or let him walk in free agency.
He provides a low-risk, high-upside option for a team in its Super Bowl window, especially since the Dolphins are reportedly paying a portion of his remaining 2025 salary.
Analysts will see if he can stay on the field and strengthen the defensive front. Fans will judge whether the gamble succeeds.
Philadelphia’s aggressive trades show a win-now approach. Success depends on Phillips avoiding injury and performing at his potential. The team hopes this move improves their pass rush and keeps Super Bowl hopes alive, but the risk remains high.
