🏈 Miami Dolphins Trade LB Jaelan Phillips to Philadelphia Eagles for 2026 Third-Round Pick
The Miami Dolphins have officially agreed to terms on a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles, sending edge rusher Jaelan Phillips to Philadelphia in exchange for a 2026 third-round draft selection. The trade was finalized ahead of the NFL trade deadline.
Deal Details and Context
* Miami Dolphins Receive: Philadelphia’s original 2026 third-round pick.
* Philadelphia Eagles Receive: Linebacker Jaelan Phillips.
* Financial Note: The Dolphins reportedly agreed to cover a significant portion of Phillips’ remaining salary for the current season to facilitate the deal and secure the high draft pick.
The move marks the first major trade for the Dolphins under interim General Manager Champ Kelly, following the departure of former GM Chris Grier. For the 2-7 Dolphins, the trade signals a pivot toward accruing future draft capital and reshaping the roster amidst a difficult season and significant upcoming salary cap commitments.
Impact on the Eagles
The Eagles, who are pushing for a deep playoff run, are acquiring an immediate upgrade to their pass rush. Phillips, the 18th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, is reunited with Eagles Defensive Coordinator Vic Fangio, who served in the same role in Miami during the 2023 season. Phillips had a productive half-season under Fangio in 2023, recording 6.5 sacks in eight games before sustaining a season-ending Achilles tear.
Phillips brings a history of disruptive play, with 26 sacks in 55 career games for Miami. His addition is expected to provide a significant boost to an Eagles pass-rush rotation that has been inconsistent at generating pressure this season.
Impact on the Dolphins
Trading Phillips, who was playing on his fifth-year option and scheduled to be an unrestricted free agent next offseason, provides the Dolphins with valuable draft compensation. The third-round pick offers the team a high-value asset, which they likely preferred over risking Phillips walking in free agency and receiving a potential compensatory pick in 2027—a pick that might not have been guaranteed to reach the third round.
The trade, while difficult for Miami coach Mike McDaniel to say goodbye to a talented player, is viewed as a strategic move to manage future assets and cap space. The Dolphins now possess multiple third-round picks in the 2026 draft.