The New York Jets have bolstered their defensive line by acquiring defensive tackles Harrison Phillips and Jowon Briggs through trades with the Minnesota Vikings and Cleveland Browns, respectively.

Why it matters: These acquisitions come in response to injuries within the Jets’ defensive unit, particularly the recent ankle injury to Byron Cowart. Strengthening their defensive front is essential for maintaining competitiveness in the AFC East.

By the numbers:

• Harrison Phillips, a 29-year-old veteran, has started 62 games and recorded a career-high 92 tackles in 2023.
• The Jets gave up two sixth-round picks (2026 and 2027) and a seventh-round pick (2027) for Phillips, while trading a 2026 sixth-round choice for Briggs, who played just 133 defensive snaps as a rookie last season.

What’s new: Harrison Phillips joins the Jets after a notable tenure with the Vikings, where he started all 51 regular-season games since signing before the 2022 season. His experience will provide depth and leadership on the Jets' defensive line.

Zoom In: Phillips’ acquisition allows the Jets to pair him alongside Quinnen Williams, one of the league's premier defensive tackles.

• Coach Steve Wilks emphasized the importance of having players who can demand double-teams to alleviate pressure on Williams, illustrating the strategic need behind these trades.

Yes, but: While Phillips brings significant experience, the Jets' decision to also bring in Jowon Briggs—who had limited playing time in his rookie year—raises questions about the long-term strategy for the defensive line.

• Briggs’ development could be pivotal if he can leverage the opportunity to learn alongside established talent like Phillips.

What to watch: The impact of these trades will unfold in training camp and preseason, especially regarding how quickly Phillips and Briggs can integrate into the Jets’ defensive schemes.

• Jay Tufele, another Jets defensive tackle, has reportedly made a strong impression during the preseason, adding competition and depth to the position.

The bottom line: The Jets are taking decisive action to solidify their defensive line amid challenges, positioning themselves strategically for the upcoming season. With Phillips and Briggs on board, they aim to enhance their run-stopping capabilities and overall defensive resilience in pursuit of playoff aspirations.

The New York Jets have bolstered their defensive line by acquiring defensive tackles Harrison Phillips and Jowon Briggs through trades with the Minnesota Vikings and Cleveland Browns, respectively.

Why it matters: These acquisitions come in response to injuries within the Jets’ defensive unit, particularly the recent ankle injury to Byron Cowart. Strengthening their defensive front is essential for maintaining competitiveness in the AFC East.

By the numbers:

• Harrison Phillips, a 29-year-old veteran, has started 62 games and recorded a career-high 92 tackles in 2023.
• The Jets gave up two sixth-round picks (2026 and 2027) and a seventh-round pick (2027) for Phillips, while trading a 2026 sixth-round choice for Briggs, who played just 133 defensive snaps as a rookie last season.

What’s new: Harrison Phillips joins the Jets after a notable tenure with the Vikings, where he started all 51 regular-season games since signing before the 2022 season. His experience will provide depth and leadership on the Jets' defensive line.

Zoom In: Phillips’ acquisition allows the Jets to pair him alongside Quinnen Williams, one of the league's premier defensive tackles.

• Coach Steve Wilks emphasized the importance of having players who can demand double-teams to alleviate pressure on Williams, illustrating the strategic need behind these trades.

Yes, but: While Phillips brings significant experience, the Jets' decision to also bring in Jowon Briggs—who had limited playing time in his rookie year—raises questions about the long-term strategy for the defensive line.

• Briggs’ development could be pivotal if he can leverage the opportunity to learn alongside established talent like Phillips.

What to watch: The impact of these trades will unfold in training camp and preseason, especially regarding how quickly Phillips and Briggs can integrate into the Jets’ defensive schemes.

• Jay Tufele, another Jets defensive tackle, has reportedly made a strong impression during the preseason, adding competition and depth to the position.

The bottom line: The Jets are taking decisive action to solidify their defensive line amid challenges, positioning themselves strategically for the upcoming season. With Phillips and Briggs on board, they aim to enhance their run-stopping capabilities and overall defensive resilience in pursuit of playoff aspirations.