The Miami Dolphins have activated linebacker Jaelan Phillips off the physically unable to perform list, paving the way for his NFL return.
Phillips suffered a season-ending torn Achilles injury that limited him to eight games last season. Despite his limited participation, he finished with 6.5 sacks and 43 tackles. The linebacker from the University of Miami also registered his first interception. If not for the injury, Phillips was on his way to a breakout season.
Before the Achilles injury that forced him to miss ten games (including Miami’s loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in the Wild Card Round), Phillips played all regular season games in his first two years with the Dolphins. He had 8.5 sacks in his rookie year and seven the following season. In addition to 22 sacks, Phillips has 146 tackles and five pass deflections in 42 regular season games.
Hiii @JJPhillips15 pic.twitter.com/pQlFlJ48PJ
— Miami Dolphins (@MiamiDolphins) August 12, 2024
However, his comeback remains uncertain despite Phillips being off the PUP list. He could be ready for the Dolphins’ season opener at home against the Jacksonville Jaguars, or he might need a few weeks before starting his fourth NFL season.
Regardless of when he returns, Phillips will boost the Dolphins pass rush. He can help Calais Campbell, Zack Sieler, and Bradley Chubb disrupt opposing offenses.
-Lance Fernandez