Jacob Phillips

Jacob Phillips's Biography

Jacob Phillips, born on April 1, 1999, has made a significant name for himself in American football as a professional linebacker. Known for his zeal and determination on the field, Phillips’ career trajectory and accomplishments tell a story of athletic prowess and commitment to the sport he loves.

Growing up in Tennessee, Phillips attended East Nashville Magnet High School and quickly turned heads with his performances on the football pitch. His senior year in 2016 was a testament to his skills and hard work. He was recognized as Tennessee’s Mr. Football and participated in the esteemed U.S. Army All-American Bowl. He achieved further honor as a semifinalist for the Butkus Award in 2016. This significant accolade recognized him as one of the country’s top high school linebackers.

Coming from high school as a five-star recruit, Phillips initially committed to the University of Oklahoma. However, his journey took a turn as he chose instead to attend Louisiana State University (LSU). Phillips’ first year at LSU in 2017 saw him participating in a total of 12 games and registering 18 successful tackles. His presence on the football field was palpable, foreshadowing the successful athlete he was to become.

In 2018, Phillips, now a sophomore, started in 11 of the 12 games. He finished the season with an impressive record of 87 tackles and a sack. His demonstrable football prowess led him to return as a starter for his junior year in 2019. Following a successful season where he recorded the highest number of tackles within his team, Phillips set his sights on grander scales. Deciding to forgo his senior year at LSU, he declared his eligibility for the 2020 NFL draft.

The Cleveland Browns recognized Phillips’ potential, selecting him in the third round of the 2020 NFL draft with the 97th overall pick. This draft selection had previously been acquired by the Browns in a trade with the Houston Texans for Duke Johnson. However, Phillips’ professional career experienced a slight bump when he was placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list on December 26, 2020. He made a swift recovery and was activated again a few days later, on December 31.

In September 2021, illustrating the brutal physicality of the sport, Phillips was once again placed on injured reserve due to a biceps injury. Following recovery, he returned to the field on December 11, ready for the 2022 season. Phillips began this season as a backup middle linebacker behind Anthony Walker at the Browns. However, he soon found himself as the starter in Week 4 following an injury to Walker.

Phillips led the line for four consecutive games but found his season disrupted once again due to a pectoral injury in Week 7. After recovery, he rejoined the team, but unfortunately, another bout of injury saw him placed on the injured reserve list again on August 13, 2023.

The following year, on April 23, 2024, Phillips was given a new opportunity as he signed a one-year contract with the Houston Texans. This lucrative deal was worth $1.15 million, underlining the high-regarded position Phillips had established for himself within the league. After what seemed to be a promising new chapter, he was released on August 27 the same year, and Phillips currently maintains his status as a free agent.

Throughout his career, Jacob Phillips has proven his resilience and dedication to the game of football. His journey, peppered with both high and low moments, serves as an example of professional athletics’ inherent challenges and the potential for exceptional success. Regardless of his future in football, his accomplishments thus far highlight a prosperous and influential career.