Following the acquisition of running back Joe Mixon in a trade coup, the Houston Texans intensified their roster revamp by securing wide receiver Stefon Diggs from the Buffalo Bills. Amid these headline-grabbing moves, the team also addressed a crucial need in the linebacker depth.
With the departure of key players like Blake Cashman and Denzel Perryman, the Texans found themselves in need of reinforcements in the linebacker corps. They recently inked a one-year deal with former Cleveland Browns linebacker Jacob Phillips, as confirmed by ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Phillips is poised to compete for playing time with fellow free agent acquisition Del’Shawn Phillips, as per Pro Football Rumors. The duo will provide crucial depth at the linebacker position, ensuring the Texans have capable reinforcements ready to step in when called upon.
The signing of Jacob Phillips comes at a significant moment for the Texans, as they prepare for the upcoming NFL season. With the starting linebacker spots likely to be occupied by Christian Harris, Henry To’oTo’o, and Azeez Al-Shaair, Phillips will have the opportunity to acclimate to his new team without the immediate pressure of being a starter. The veteran’s tenure with the Browns didn’t meet expectations, but he is expected to shine brightly in the Texans squad.
How was Jacob Phillips’ journey with the Browns?
Jacob Phillips embarked on a four-year journey with the Browns following his selection in the 2020 NFL Draft from Louisiana State University (LSU). The Browns acquired Phillips’ rights in a trade with the Houston Texans, swapping him for running back Duke Johnson.
The linebacker showcased glimpses of his potential by tallying 88 tackles, three sacks, and five pass deflections. His standout performance came in the 2022 season, where he recorded 46 tackles and two sacks. However, injuries plagued the veteran’s career, limiting his availability and hindering his progression. He struggled to stay healthy and played in only 20 out of a potential 67 regular-season games, with just eight starts to his name.
Phillips missed seven games due to injury in his rookie season. It was followed by a more severe setback in his sophomore year, sidelining him for 13 games. The 2022 season also saw the linebacker face adversity as he was forced to sit out the final 10 games due to injury. His most significant setback occurred in 2023, when a torn pectoral muscle suffered during a preseason game ruled him out for the entire season.
