1 Signing Eagles Must Make After Landing Jaelan Phillips at Trade Deadline
The Philadelphia Eagles made a bold trade deadline move by acquiring edge rusher Jaelan Phillips, signaling their full commitment to a playoff run. However, one crucial signing remains to strengthen their defense.
To maximize Phillips’ impact, the Eagles should sign veteran defensive tackle Christian Wilkins. Wilkins, a former All-Pro interior disruptor, would anchor the A-gap, collapse the pocket, and enhance the Eagles’ upgraded edge rush.
Wilkins became available after the Las Vegas Raiders released him following a contentious rehab dispute and a locker-room incident that increased tensions. Despite these off-field issues, Wilkins has demonstrated high value as a dominant presence on the defensive line.
“Wilkins offers exactly what the Eagles’ interior rotation lacks: High-level penetration, disruptiveness, and the kind of presence that forces offenses to respect the middle.”
Phillips brings explosive athleticism off the edge, but even elite pass rushers struggle if the center and guards control the pocket. Wilkins’ ability to penetrate and disrupt from the interior will give the Eagles’ defense its best chance to succeed.
Over the last three seasons, Wilkins has been among the most disruptive interior defenders in the NFL, making him an ideal fit for a contender like the Eagles.
Author's summary: Signing Christian Wilkins will crucially strengthen the Eagles’ defense by complementing Jaelan Phillips and enhancing their interior pressure in the playoff push.