The Miami Dolphins selected University of Miami defensive end Jaelan Phillips with the 18th pick of the 2021 NFL Draft.
The 21-year-old Phillips has had quite the journey to get to this point.
The five-star recruit pass rusher originally went to UCLA where he started four of seven games – including 21 tackles, seven for a loss and 3.5 sacks – but injuries and an incident when he was hit by a car while on his scooter his sophomore year led him to retire from football.
Phillips changed his mind, however, and enrolled at Miami in 2019. He played his only season for the Hurricanes last year, but wreaked havoc on quarterbacks and in the backfield, quickly proving that when he is healthy, he is capable of being an NFL pass rusher.
Measurables: 6-foot-5/266 pounds
School: University of Miami
2020 stats: 10 games, 45 tackles, eight sacks, 15.5 tackles for loss, one interception
Accolades: Second-Team All-American, Second-Team All-ACC
Strengths:
• Former five-star recruit
• Good combination of speed, size, strength and athleticism
• Plays until the whistle
• Versatile (can play in different schemes)
• Excellent power and physicality on contact
Weaknesses:
• Collegiate career plagued by injuries
• High pad level off the snap
• Inconsistent hand technique
Expert scout analysis: "Phillips was given the opportunity to step into the starting lineup after Gregory Rousseau opted out of the season, and he made the most of his chance. He’s a terrific athlete with natural pass-rushing skills as well as growth potential. If Phillips passes medical checks and stays healthy, he offers great upside and should only improve as he physically matures and adds bulk and strength to his frame." – Tony Pauline, ProFootballNetwork
Tape:
Player comparisons: Maxx Crosby (Lance Zierlein), Cam Jordan (Charlie Campbell), Jadeveon Clowney (Eric Edholm)
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