“It’s going to be a long process”: Dolphins LB Jaelan Phillips opens up about his Achilles injury during Jets game

The Miami Dolphins are riding high on their Super Bowl aspirations this season, marked by a stellar performance in their recent 34-13 victory over the New York Jets. Nevertheless, the celebratory atmosphere took a poignant turn as linebacker Jaelan Phillips faced a devastating Achilles injury. 

Though it cast a shadow over the team’s success, Phillips has offered a glimmer of optimism with his candid reflection on the season-ending setback. In the face of adversity, the linebacker provides a glimpse into his resilient spirit, aiming to emerge stronger from the challenging road to recovery.

Jaelan Phillips speaks up on his Achilles injury

Jaelan Phillip’s injury not only impacted Phillips physically but also brought forth an emotional scene involving his mother. Following the injury, his mother, unable to contain her emotions, found solace on the shoulders of legendary Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino. Phillips shared this poignant moment, revealing, “My Mom was crying on Dan Marino’s shoulder.”

For Phillips, the season-ending injury undoubtedly marked a tough night, but the emotional toll on his mother seemed to weigh even heavier on his heart. Despite facing a long and challenging recovery process, Phillips expressed his determination to emerge from this adversity as a stronger person. 

 “It is going to be a long process, but I just know I’m a fighter, and I’m gonna keep fighting,” he added.

The injury occurred late in the fourth quarter, displaying the telltale signs of a ruptured Achilles tendon, as seen in television replays. The Dolphin’s vet was visibly emotional as he was taken off the field on a cart, surrounded by supportive teammates, in what Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel described as an “emotional” moment.

McDaniel, while providing an update on Phillips’ injury, expressed a lack of optimism, acknowledging that the team is preparing for the “worst-case scenario” following the night. Despite the grim outlook, the HC conveyed confidence in Jaelan Phillips’ resilience, stating that the third-year linebacker possesses the proper temperament to bounce back from this significant setback.

Dolphins officially puts Jaelan Phillips on IR list

The Miami Dolphins faced a significant setback as they placed their star player, Jaelan Phillips, on injured reserve this Tuesday. Unfortunately, the linebacker joined the growing list of athletes who have suffered injuries on the turf field at MetLife Stadium. 

This list includes notable names like Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who endured an Achilles tear just four plays into the season, per ABC News. Displaying a sense of condolence, A-Rod reached out to Phillips, offering support during this challenging time.

During his participation in only 8 of the Dolphins’ 11 games this season, the Dolphins’ linebacker nonetheless made a substantial impact, tying for the team lead with 6.5 sacks. His absence poses a challenge for the Dolphins as they aim to secure their first Super Bowl win in 50 years.

In response to this setback, the Dolphins swiftly signed Jason Pierre-Paul to their practice squad. The Deerfield Beach native expressed his excitement about returning home in an Instagram post, stating, “I’m coming home” on Monday evening.

The three-time Pro Bowler is expected to bring valuable experience and a winning pedigree, having clinched Super Bowls with the New York Giants in 2011 and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2020. Over his impressive 14-season career, Pierre-Paul has accumulated an impressive 94.5 sacks.

The Dolphins are banking on Jason Pierre-Paul’s veteran prowess to fill the void left by Jaelan Phillips. As they navigate the challenges posed by injuries, the addition of a seasoned player like Pierre-Paul could prove instrumental in bolstering the team’s defensive efforts and aspirations for a historic championship win.