First round pick Jaelan Phillips signs four- year rookie deal

May 26, 2021; Davie, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins linebacker Jaelan Phillips (15) participates in OTA workouts at Baptist Health Training Facility. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-USA TODAY Sports
May 26, 2021; Davie, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins linebacker Jaelan Phillips (15) participates in OTA workouts at Baptist Health Training Facility. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-USA TODAY Sports /
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After making Jalean Philips the highest draft EDGE rusher during the 2021 draft, the Dolphins have officially inked a deal with the former Miami Hurricane.

The deal is for four years, with a fifth year option, for $14 million fully guaranteed and a $7.5 million signing bonus.

Phillips,  the former number one overall prospect in the class of 2017, was selected 18th overall by the Miami Dolphins as their second first round selection. Phillips’ biggest concerns surround his medical history that forced him to medically retire from UCLA prior to his transfer to Miami in 2019.

What Phillips brings to the Dolphins is what the team drastically missed last season, opposite of Emmanuel Ogbah, a consistent pass rusher. Phillips had 8.0 sacks, 15.5 tackles for loss, and 45 total tackles in 10 games played. Not only does he contribute as a pass rusher, Phillips also had three pass deflections in his lone season for the Hurricanes.

If Phillips is able to overcome his injury history, he should be able to make an immediate impact on the team as a day one starter on a trending defensive line.

Phillips becomes the fourth player in the class to be signed joining fellow first-round pick, wide receiver Jaylen Waddle, and the two seventh-round selections in Gerrid Doaks and Larnel Coleman.

The Dolphins will likely lock in second-round picks safety Jevon Holland and offensive lineman Liam Eichneberg, and third-round tight end Hunter Long prior to the end of the month. The Dolphins will likely also look to add another impact veteran or two prior to the start of the preseason.