By Sunday 
A Familiar Hole in the Defense
For the second straight season, the Detroit Lions find themselves scrambling at the edge rusher position. Marcus Davenport’s latest injury setback has once again exposed the team’s thin depth opposite Aidan Hutchinson. Al-Quadin Muhammad has stepped up admirably, but relying on him as the long-term answer feels risky.
Enter Jaelan Phillips
Thanks to ESPN’s Dan Graziano, the Lions might not have to search far. He floated Miami Dolphins edge rusher Jaelan Phillips as a name to watch if the Dolphins decide to sell at the trade deadline. For Detroit, this is one of those rare situations where talent, fit, and affordability align perfectly.
The Resume Speaks for Itself
When healthy, Phillips is no slouch. A 2021 first-round pick, he’s already logged 22 career sacks and consistently graded as a top-20 edge rusher by Pro Football Focus, peaking at No. 6 in 2022. At 6-foot-5 and 263 pounds, he has the physical profile Detroit craves — capable of setting the edge against the run and collapsing pockets in passing situations.
The Price Is Right
Here’s the kicker: Phillips’ injury history means the Lions wouldn’t have to break the bank. A proposed trade value? A 2026 fifth-round pick. That’s pocket change for a pass rusher with this much upside. And since Phillips is on his fifth-year option, Detroit wouldn’t be locked into a massive contract unless he earns it.
Why This Time Is Different
General manager Brad Holmes has often lamented how tough it is to trade for edge rushers. Last year’s Za’Darius Smith deal was, in his words, “the most difficult player acquisition journey” he’s faced. But this situation feels different — the Dolphins are 0-3, their leadership is on shaky ground, and Phillips could be one of the first pieces they move.
A No-Brainer Move?
For a Lions team with legitimate NFC title hopes, this might be the definition of a low-risk, high-reward trade. A cheap, talented, and available edge rusher doesn’t fall into your lap every day — but it just might for Detroit.