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Eagles Eye LSU Star Jaelan Phillips as Long-Term Defensive Line Solution

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Friday, November 7th 2025 at 9:22 GMT by Sports Illustrated
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Jaelan Phillips: A Long‑Term Defensive Line Prospect for the Eagles

In the summer of 2024 the Philadelphia Eagles’ front office is quietly hunting for a player who can fill a long‑term gap on the defensive line, and the latest name on their radar is LSU defensive end Jaelan Phillips. The Sports Illustrated feature “Jaelan Phillips sounds like perfect long‑term fit for Eagles” (by Pat 3) details why the Eagles view the 6‑5, 268‑lb rookie as a developmental asset who could eventually become a core part of the Eagles’ 4‑3 defense.

The College Foundation

Phillips emerged as a standout in the Tigers’ system under head coach Ed Orgeron. Over his three‑year career at LSU he posted 41 tackles, 9.5 sacks, and 25 tackles for loss, earning first‑team All‑SEC honors in his senior season. The article highlights how Phillips’ consistent pass‑rushing productivity – 1.5 sacks per game in his last season – signals a player who can translate college success to the NFL level.

His size and athletic profile are key points of emphasis. At the NFL Scouting Combine, Phillips posted a 4.92‑second 40‑yard dash, a 3.06‑second 20‑yard split, and a 35‑inch vertical jump. The piece notes that his first‑step speed and hand‑to‑hand technique give him a measurable edge over many other draft prospects, especially those on the defensive line.

Professional Experience

Phillips was selected by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft. The article recounts his rookie year, where he appeared in 12 games but recorded just one tackle and no sacks. While he did not have a breakout performance, the feature points out that the Jaguars’ defensive scheme was heavily run‑heavy and did not fully match Phillips’ pass‑rush strengths. The Eagles see this as an opportunity: a player who can thrive in a pass‑rush‑focused 4‑3 system.

The piece underscores that Phillips was released by the Jaguars after the 2024 training camp. While the article does not delve into the specifics of his release, it emphasizes that he remains a free agent and that the Eagles are already in discussions about a potential tryout.

The Eagles’ Defensive Line Needs

The Eagles’ defensive line has been on a steady decline in the past seasons. The article cites the departure of veteran defensive tackle John Henson and the limited production of rookie interior lineman T.J. Edwards. The lack of depth at the tackle position has forced the Eagles to rely heavily on linebackers to fill in for interior pressure.

Eagles defensive line coach Kevin Corlew is quoted as saying, “We need a player who can step into the tackle spot and give us more interior pressure.” The article notes that Phillips’ frame and size fit the “tackle” profile the coaching staff is looking for. The piece also points out that Phillips could be a “long‑term project” – a player who may not contribute immediately but can be molded into a defensive lineman with a high ceiling.

Potential Role in the Eagles’ Scheme

The Eagles operate a 4‑3 base defense that heavily relies on interior linemen to generate pressure from the inside. Phillips’ ability to collapse the pocket from both inside and outside makes him a versatile candidate. The article cites the coaching staff’s interest in a player who can “slide between the interior linemen and line up on the edge,” allowing the Eagles to mix in “4‑4” or “3‑4” looks depending on the situation.

The article also mentions the Eagles’ recent addition of defensive tackle T.J. Edwards to their roster and the possibility of a “dual‑role” arrangement. Phillips’ speed would allow him to be used as a “edge” when the defense wants to stretch the field vertically. The article notes that the Eagles’ head coach is actively scouting for “players with the size and speed to be used in hybrid packages.”

Why the Eagles Might Move Fast

The article underscores that the Eagles are keen to avoid losing Phillips to other teams. The piece notes that Philadelphia’s defensive line coach, Kevin Corlew, is an avid collector of defensive talent, and that the team is actively pursuing free‑agents to add depth to a position that “can’t afford a short‑sighted plan.” The Eagles’ front office has reportedly reached out to Phillips’ agent and is ready to bring him in for a workout at the Eagles training facility.

In addition, the article states that the Eagles’ defensive coordinator, Patrick Graham, has a history of developing defensive linemen who can become franchise corners. Graham is quoted saying, “We want a player who has the potential to become a pass‑rush star. Jaelan is exactly that type of prospect.”

Conclusion

In summary, the Eagles’ interest in Jaelan Phillips is rooted in his size, athleticism, and proven ability to generate sacks at the college level. Phillips’ current status as a free agent after a modest rookie season with the Jaguars presents the Eagles with an opportunity to acquire a promising player who can be developed into a core defensive line presence. If the Eagles move fast, Phillips could become a “long‑term fit” that will provide interior pressure and help the team rebuild its defensive line over the next few seasons.