Panthers take advantage of another NFC team dragging their feet by making a massive splash to bring in a big-name pass rusher
The Carolina Panthers have landed Jaelan Phillips on a massive free agent signing.
As promised, the Carolina Panthers are expected to make a massive free agent signing within the first hour of the legal tampering period.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter is reporting that the Panthers are expected to give former Philadelphia Eagles pass rusher Jaelan Phillips a four-year, $120 million deal with the Carolina Panthers with $80 million in guarantees. Panthers general manager Dan Morgan was vocal that the team’s pass rush from 2025 was not acceptable and this time makes sure he gets a big-ticket deal over the finish line.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler added that the Panthers were circling between Phillips and Odafe Oweh. There was a belief that the Eagles would work out a deal to keep Phillips but instead the Panthers made a big swing to reel him in.
Jaelan Phillips finally cashes in on his first big contract as the Panthers land an impact pass rusher
“Phillips was quite impressive for the Eagles last season once joining the roster via trade. He immediately had an impact on the team’s pass rush and stayed healthy down the stretch. After a couple of injury-plagued seasons with the Dolphins, staying on the field was a win in itself in 2025. Phillips is an athletic mover off the edge and can contribute for multiple schemes. The pass rusher managed just five sacks last year, but his pressure rate would project that number could go up in the future. He’s also had seasons of 8.5 and 7 sacks earlier in his pro career.” – A to Z Sports’ Adam Holt
The Panthers are truly betting for the upside here. Phillips has been decently productive throughout his time with the Dolphins and Eagles, but this is some serious money with real risk involved. Phillips will now be expected to be a game-wrecker for that kind of price lining up opposite Nic Scourton with Derrick Brown attacking in the interior.
Where did Jaelan Phillips rank in A to Z Sports’ Top-100?
“Phillips had several sacks slip through his fingers last season that prevented his numbers from reflecting his pressure numbers. If you believe he’ll finish those plays this year and stay healthy again, he’s a top pass rush option. But the injury history may prompt a one-year deal.” – A to Z Sports’ Kyle Crabbs
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