By Moses Joshua 
Jaelan Phillips emerges as a dream target to supercharge Detroit’s already dominant front seven
A Defense on the Verge of Dominance
The Detroit Lions’ defense has already evolved into one of the NFL’s most aggressive and well-balanced units. With the return of standout defensive tackle Alim McNeill in Week 7, Detroit’s front seven looks rejuvenated — fast, physical, and increasingly hard to handle. Yet, according to The Sporting News’ Vinnie Iyer, the group could still take another major leap with one bold move: acquiring Jaelan Phillips from the Miami Dolphins.
Phillips, a versatile and explosive edge rusher, has been singled out by Iyer as Detroit’s “ideal target” ahead of the November 4 trade deadline. For general manager Brad Holmes, a trade like this could be the final step toward transforming the Lions’ defense from merely “good” into one of the most feared in football.
The Case for Jaelan Phillips
While Detroit doesn’t lack talent on the perimeter — especially with Aidan Hutchinson playing at a Defensive Player of the Year level — adding Phillips would give the Lions a terrifying one-two punch on the edge.
“With Hendrickson unlikely to happen … [the Lions] can take a shot on another very effective would-be complement to Defensive Player of the Year candidate Aidan Hutchinson,” Iyer wrote, referencing Phillips after confirming Cincinnati Bengals star Trey Hendrickson was not available.
At 26, Phillips still has room to grow but has already shown elite flashes. Over his first two seasons, he recorded 15.5 sacks, showcasing rare athleticism, power, and a relentless motor. His ability to set the edge, disrupt passing lanes, and even drop back into coverage makes him a scheme-versatile weapon — exactly the type of player Detroit thrives on developing.
A Future Built on Strength
Pairing Phillips with Hutchinson would create one of the most dynamic young duos in the NFL. Both players are entering their prime years, capable of anchoring Detroit’s defense for seasons to come. But that kind of talent comes with a cost.
Hutchinson’s looming contract extension is expected to exceed $40 million annually, while Phillips — playing out the final year of his rookie deal — could command a nine-figure contract himself. Still, if Holmes can navigate the cap and make the money work, this move could pay off tenfold.
Phillips’ journey hasn’t been without challenges. Injuries slowed his early development, but when healthy, he’s been a force of nature. His combination of length, agility, and intelligence has made him one of the most underrated edge defenders in football — and a perfect fit for the Lions’ aggressive, disciplined system.
The Final Piece of a Championship Puzzle
Detroit already sits atop the NFC North and has shown it can go toe-to-toe with any contender. But as playoff football looms, adding another elite pass rusher could be the difference between a deep postseason run and a Super Bowl berth.
The Lions’ defense is fierce. Their identity is clear. And with Jaelan Phillips in Honolulu blue, it could become downright unstoppable.