Potential Patriots Trade Target Off Board As Eagles Reportedly Land Jaelan Philips

In the wake of the New England Patriots’ 24-23 victory over the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday afternoon, the team is expected to be active ahead of the upcoming trade deadline. However, on Monday morning, they watched one of their top trade targets come off the board.

Despite being 7-2, the Pats have several areas of need across their roster. That was abundantly clear against the Falcons, who nearly pulled off a surprising victory in this one. A big reason for Atlanta’s success on offense was that it was able to protect its quarterback, Michael Penix Jr.

New England’s defense could certainly use some more pass-rushing help, which led them to show interest in Miami Dolphins linebacker Jaelan Phillips. However, Phillips appears to have found a new home, as reports indicate the Dolphins have sent him to the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for a 2026 third-round pick.

“Sources: Miami is trading edge rusher Jaelan Phillips to the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for a 2026 third-round pick,” Adam Schefter of ESPN reported. “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.”

The No. 18 overall pick of the 2021 NFL Draft, Phillips is enjoying a strong season with the Dolphins, despite their collective struggles. Phillips has suited up for all nine games, racking up 25 tackles and three sacks during his time on the field.

While the Patriots have a strong defensive front, they could use another pass rusher to help out alongside Harold Landry III and K’Lavon Chaisson. They will have to look elsewhere, though, as Phillips has come off the board with just over 24 hours to go until the deadline strikes.