Standout linebacker Jaelan Phillips has suffered a partially torn ACL, ending his 2024 season prematurely. The injury, which occurred during a loss to the Tennessee Titans, is a significant blow to the Miami Dolphins' defensive lineup. It also marks another setback for the promising young talent who had only recently returned from a previous season-ending injury.
Second Major Injury in Less Than a Year
The incident occurred in the second quarter when teammate Jordan Poyer, in an attempt to tackle Titans running back Tony Pollard, collided his helmet with Phillips’ right knee. Phillips had to be seen off to the locker room for further testing and although he reentered the game, he eventually was forced to leave in the third quarter.
This latest Jaelan Phillips injury comes as a particularly harsh blow, considering it's his second season-ending setback in just 10 months. The 25-year-old edge rusher had shown remarkable resilience in bouncing back from a torn Achilles sustained in November 2023, making his way back to the starting lineup for the 2024 campaign. In the latest NFL injury updates, sources confirm that Phillips will require full ACL reconstruction surgery, with hopes of being ready for the start of the 2025 season.
Speaking on the injury was Coach Mike McDaniel, expressing his disappointment, particularly considering Philips’ dedication: "I mean it's not exciting at all, especially when you watch someone work so hard to earn every rep. It's tough. Jaelan has continually impressed me since I've gotten to know him."
How Will This Impact Team Dynamics?
The season impacts of losing Phillips cannot be understated. In just four games this year, he had already recorded six tackles, two quarterback hits, and one sack. He continues to build on his impressive career totals of 23 sacks and 54 QB hits in 46 games.
Rookie first-round pick Chop Robinson and fifth-round selection Mo Kamara are now expected to step up, along with veterans Emmanuel Ogbah and Quinton Bell. According to Coach McDaniel, replacing Phillips will require a collective effort:
"They get to collectively put forth a lot of work that they've absolutely, positively prepared for the situation, as it presented itself.
"There was a tremendous amount of gained reps to learn from and grow through in training camp. And the key thing is that you are not trying to be Jaelan Phillips ... It's a collective step up and it's kind of directly in relation to what the whole team is trying to do right now.
"So, it's not one person necessarily, but I'm confident in the collective because they've given me reason to be confident by their daily output."
Looking Ahead
Despite the setback, Phillips himself remains characteristically optimistic. Taking to social media, he posted, "The mission is still the mission. I have unfinished business to take care of and I will come out of this trial victorious."
His attitude will be crucial as he faces not only physical recovery but also the challenge of proving his worth for a potential second contract with the Dolphins. Notably, he enters the fifth and final year of his rookie deal in 2025.