As the NFL prepares for an exciting second half, one NFL writer has identified each team's breakout star for the back half of the season.
With a fresh uniform and a reunion with his defensive coordinator from 2023, Bleacher Report writer Kristopher Knox believes that Jaelan Phillips is the Philadelphia Eagles' breakout star for the rest of the season.
"Jaelan Phillips had a strong early career with the Dolphins before injuries cost him most of the 2023 and 2024 seasons. He faced an uncertain future in a contract year with a struggling defense before Miami traded him to the Philadelphia Eagles.
In his first game as an Eagle, the 26-year-old showed his difference-making potential. After recording six tackles, two quarterback hits, one key tackle for loss and a fumble recovery on Monday night, he is poised to become a star in Philly's defense."
Phillips already made a strong first impression on Philly
Phillips has been one of the NFL's most dynamic pass rushers when healthy; however, he has dealt with injuries in 2023 and 2024 that have limited his production. As Phillips is on the final stretch of a contract year, and now in a defense that needs/maximizes his skillset with a coordinator who saw him hit seven sacks in eight games, Phillips is primed to "pop" in the final eight games of the season.
With Phillips now working with one of football's best defensive coordinators, in addition to being surrounded by young players like Jihaad Campbell, Jordan Davis, and Jalen Carter, along with veteran Zack Baun, the 26-year-old Miami alum has plenty of help to help him build on his first outing for the Eagles.
Phillips' next matchup against the Lions in week eleven could be extremely advantageous for the "hungry" EDGE rusher. Despite the Lions' success on offense, their offensive line is currently dealing with injuries to Taylor Decker, Penei Sewell, Christian Mahogany, and Tate Ratledge, allowing for Phillips and the rest of the Eagles' front seven to dominate against a less-than-mobile Jared Goff.
With the addition of Phillips, the Eagles have the potential to surpass their sack totals from 2024 despite losing key pieces and an anemic start to the season. Phillips' ability to consistently fire off the ball and get pressure is something the Eagles have lacked with Jaylx Hunt and Josh Uche manning the EDGE during their first eight games.
Read more: NFL reporter puts Eagles fans on notice with massive Jaelan Phillips decision
If Phillips can stay healthy (which is a big if), the Eagles may have found another gem via a Howie Roseman trade.