3 defensive end prospects Jaguars can consider with 25th overall pick

Jaelan Phillips’ upside could entice the Jacksonville Jaguars to draft him.

Out of all the three top defensive end prospects in the draft, Jaelan Phillips may be off the board when the Jaguars are on the clock at 25. However, it’s uncertain how the draft will unfold and could be an interesting option if he’s available in the second half of the first round.

Draft analyst Chad Reuter of NFL Media describes the Miami standout as a versatile EDGE defender in the mold of three-time Pro Bowler Chandler Jones and Buffalo Bills defensive end Trent Murphy. He also praised his length, tenacity, and quickness.

Reuter added that Phillips’ quickness and strong motor make it difficult to beat off the edge with misdirections and bootlegs and mentioned that he has the power to disengage tacklers to chase down plays coming in his direction. He later added that he may not fit all schemes as he doesn’t have the size of a typical defensive end and he doesn’t turn the corner as most 4-3 EDGE rushers. Nevertheless, the analyst believes a team will take a flyer on him in the first round.

Phillips was a five-star recruit out of high school and committed to UCLA. However, injuries and concussions limited his impact and availability with the Bruins, which led to the decision to retire. He ended up changing his mind and transferring to Miami, where he was finally healthy and able to showcase his talent.

In his lone season with the Hurricanes, Phillips appeared in ten games and logged 45 total tackles, 15.5 tackles for a loss, eight sacks, and one interception. If he’s available at 25, the Jags will have a chance to find out if that kind of production can translate to the pros.