3 Most Likely Teams to Draft Jaelan Phillips

In the recent NFL odds rankings of defensive lineman, FanDuel Sportsbook has Jaelan Phillips at +195 to be the first defensive lineman drafted. His medical checks will be important to NFL teams, as Phillips had concussion issues at UCLA that caused him to briefly retire from football before transferring to Miami.

Phillips might be the best pure pass-rusher in this class, but scouts note he needs to improve his all-around game. Still, he will be a desired edge rusher and could be an immediate impact player. Here are three teams likely to consider Jaelan Phillips in the first round.

3. Minnesota Vikings, No. 14

The Minnesota Vikings defense fell off last year after losing a number of defensive players including lineman. In his only season at Miami in 2020, Phillips earned second-team AP All-American honors after recording eight sacks, 45 tackles including 15.5 for loss. He's a risk, but he offers a great potential reward as a player with power, speed and strong closing ability.

2. Indianpolis Colts, No. 21

Even if the Indianapolis Colts bring back free agent pass rusher Justin Houston, Phillips figures to be on the team's radar at No. 21. He has an ideal combination of athleticism and length. Phillips not only sees the field and makes quick adjustments from the edge, but he has shown a good ability to diagnose the play in the run game. That would make him a solid all-around fit on this defense.

1. Buffalo Bills, No. 30

The Buffalo Bills have a primary need at EDGE, and they figure to grab Phillips if he falls past the Baltimore Ravens (No. 27) or New Orleans Saints (No. 28). Phillips has elite traits for the position — great height, weight distribution and long wingspan (80.75 inches). He also tested through the roof at Miami’s pro day, including a 4.56-second 40-yard dash. Phillips could take this pass-rushing unit over the top if he's still on the board at No. 30.

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