Jaelan Phillips

Height: 6’5″

Weight: 266 lbs

Strengths: The former 5-star prospect and #1 overall recruit, Jaelan Phillips really came along at the end of the season. Of his 8 sacks in 2020, 5.5 of them came in the last three games against Virginia Tech, Duke, and North Carolina. Possessing ideal size for the position, Phillips has incredible bend and balance coming off the edge. He is a quick-twitch athlete that has a bevy of pass rush moves. Utilizes false steps and quickness extremely well. Has above-average power that allows him to slide inside on passing downs. Shows good awareness in run support, setting a strong edge. Displays violent and active hands that helps prevent lineman from getting into his chest.

Weaknesses: Injuries are a major concern with Phillips. He has sustained multiple concussions, injuries to both ankles, and a severe wrist injury as well\. Needs to play with lower pad level, as he can get stood up at times. Being an aggressive pass rusher, Phillips has a tendency to overpursue. He is adequate at dropping into coverage but it is not his strong suit.

Jaelan Phillips has everything you could want from an edge rusher: size, length, versatility and athleticism. The biggest issue he will face throughout the process will be durability concerns. If he clears medical testing, I have no doubts he will be at the top of a lot of teams boards. I believe that he could be a target of the Vikings at 14 with his size and athleticism profile meeting what the Vikings look for.