Jets bolster the interior with Harrison Phillips as a Week 1 starter and Jowon Briggs as a rotational option, signaling a push for DT depth behind Quinnen Williams. Bleacher Report identifies wide receiver, defensive line, and quarterback as the top offseason needs and highlights Clemson’s Peter Woods as the premier DL fit to upgrade interior disruption. With Williams anchored, New York eyeing blockers to free him for one-on-ones hints at a more formidable front that could shape fantasy DL value for years.

Phillips slides into the Jets' interior as a reliable run-stopper, absorbing double teams to free Jamien Sherwood and Quincy Williams to attack downhill. Week 1 against Pittsburgh tests that middle, where his anchor should slow the Steelers' ground game and set the tone for the Jets' front.

Phillips' selfless approach lets the linebackers play freely, improving interior discipline and creating more tackle opportunities for the Jets' LB duo and Quinnen Williams.

Fantasy-wise, the upgrade raises run-stops and could lift LB floors in IDP formats, with Sherwood and Williams benefiting most if Pittsburgh leans on the ground early.

The Vikings traded Harrison Phillips to the Jets for a pair of sixth-round picks (2026, 2027) and a 2027 seventh-round pick, earning a B grade from ESPN for both teams. Minnesota leaned on cap relief and depth at defensive tackle, while New York added a solid run-stopper with leadership qualities. Phillips’ departure raises questions about replacing his locker-room intangibles in Minnesota as the team pivots toward Hargrave and Allen.

ESPN’s grade reflects Minnesota’s current cap crunch and the interior-DT surplus, plus the Jets’ need to bolster their run defense. Minnesota’s move preserves flexibility for 2026 while Jets fans gain a veteran presence inside. The narrative centers on how leadership and chemistry translate to on-field impact for IDP and fantasy planners.

The Vikings’ week of deals lands Mekhi Blackmon in Indy for a 2026 sixth-round pick, a move that trims depth concerns while boosting Minnesota’s draft capital for a post-roster rebuild. The body of trades that week also netted compensatory picks, signaling a broader roster-replenishment push. With Jordan Addison suspended and Jalen Nailor banged up, Minnesota is weighing Vaughn and Kahlef Hailassie at CB and safety while keeping an eye on a possible Adam Thielen reunion.