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.