BREAKING: Bills bring back Jordan Phillips

The Buffalo Bills officially announced today that the team will bring back veteran DT Jordan Phillips for the 2022-23 season.

Phillips, a former Bill who spent the last two seasons with the Arizona Cardinals, announced on Instagram that he was released by the Cardinals moments after the 2022 League Year/Free Agency period began yesterday. He made it crystal clear that he wanted back in Buffalo.

Phillips’ Previous Stint

The Buffalo Bills initially claimed Phillips off waivers midway through the 2018 season. In 2019, Phillips had a breakout season, finishing with a career-high 9.5 sacks. Three of those sacks came in the Week 5 matchup against the Tennessee Titans. He immediately became a fan favorite in the Queen City thanks to his cleats.

Despite making his mark in Buffalo, Jordan Phillips signed with the Cardinals on a three-year, $30 million deal in March 2020. But during his time in Arizona, Phillips struggled to stay on the field. He played 18 games over two seasons, amassing 33 combined tackles and four sacks.

What this means for the DL?

Now, Phillips is joining a Bills interior defensive front that is much improved over his prior stint with the team.

Of the three Bills’ signings so far this offseason, two are defensive tackles. Tim Settle and Da’Quan Jones both excel in defending against the run – an area that has needed serious help. 

These signings bring the total number of defensive tackles on the roster to seven. With Ed Oliver, Star Lotulelei, Eli Ankou, Brandin Byrant, and Boogie Basham vying for snaps as well, Expect to have five on the final roster come Week 1. 

Phillips’ veteran presence and status as a fan favorite provides a tremendous boost to the Buffalo front-seven. Especially after hearing the Von Miller news, having #97 back is a good get for the Bills as the new year has just begun.