Jaelan Phillips: Everything you need to know

Phillips agreed to a four-year, $120 million contract with the Panthers on Monday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports. Phillips' massive new contract won't be finalized until the new league year begins Wednesday. Carolina's banking on a return to form for Miami's 2021 first-round pick, as Phillips had just 6.0 sacks in 21 games split between Miami and Philadelphia over the past two regular seasons after notching at least 6.5 sacks in each of his first three campaigns with the Dolphins.

Phillips recorded 53 tackles (29 solo), including 5.0 sacks, and four passes defended while playing 17 regular-season games during the 2025 campaign. Phillips missed just one game in 2025 after suffering a torn ACL four weeks into the 2024 campaign, and he was traded from Miami to Philadelphia just ahead of the 2025 trade deadline. Between nine games in the regular season and playoffs, the 26-year-old tallied 2.0 sacks for the Eagles. During the first five years of his career, Phillips has recorded 28 sacks across 63 regular-season games.

Phillips (ankle) was a full participant in Wednesday's practice. Phillips was able to start the week as a full participant after missing last Sunday's loss to the Commanders due to an ankle injury he likely sustained against the Bills in Week 17. The weakside linebacker's ability to start the week with full participation means he should be all set to suit up for Sunday's wild-card game against the 49ers alongside fellow linebackers Zach Baun, Nakobe Dean (hamstring) and Nolan Smith.