Jaelan Phillips is eager to return to the field, yet he’s prioritizing taking things step by step during this offseason.
Following an early end to his 2023 season due to an Achilles injury, the Dolphins linebacker is approaching this unexpected setback with a renewed mindset.
“It’s a new experience for me,” Phillips told David Furones of the South Florida Sun Sentinel at the Dolphins Challenge Cancer charity event. “Dealing with a lower-extremity injury like this, especially long-term, is something I haven’t encountered before. It’s been a learning process, understanding my body and what’s best for me. Overall, it’s been a positive experience.”
It’s been three months since Phillips suffered the Achilles injury in Week 12 against the Jets. Prior to that, he was having a standout season, registering impressive stats in eight games played.
While Phillips is focused on his comeback in the upcoming season, he’s also aware of potential changes to the Dolphins’ defense in 2024. Reports indicate that Miami is likely to part ways with Xavien Howard and has already released Emmanuel Ogbah to manage salary cap issues.
“It’s going to be challenging,” Phillips acknowledged regarding the roster adjustments. “Personally, Emmanuel has been a mentor to me since my rookie year. It’s tough to see him go, but we’ll rally around each other as a team. We’ll miss him and X (Xavien Howard), who’ve been mainstays on this team for a while.”
Despite the changes, Phillips finds support in his teammate Bradley Chubb, who is also undergoing rehabilitation for an injury suffered in Week 17.
“We’re pushing each other,” Phillips said. “We’re motivating each other and staying focused.”
While the Dolphins face a decision regarding Phillips’ future with the team by May 2, he remains concentrated on his rehabilitation for the upcoming season.
“I’ve been completely focused on getting back for the season,” he stated. “I’ve learned to keep my spirits up and find silver linings during this time. It’s about how you respond to adversity, and I’m using this opportunity to improve other areas of my life. Overall, it’s been a positive journey.”