Buccaneers' Trade Prospects Diminish After Phillips Deal

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers' prospects of making impactful trades have taken a significant hit following the Philadelphia Eagles' recent acquisition of Jaelan Phillips from the Miami Dolphins. According to The Pewter Plank, the Eagles traded a 2026 third-round pick for Phillips, a former first-round pick who has struggled since his 2024 season-ending injury.

This trade is crucial for the Buccaneers for two primary reasons; first, the Eagles, one of the top teams in the NFC, successfully secured a much-needed pass rusher, and second, the trade's implications have likely altered the market dynamics for other available players.

The report indicates that if a player like Phillips, who has recorded only one sack this season, can command a third-round pick, it raises the asking prices for other edge rushers significantly. This scenario could deter Buccaneers General Manager Jason Licht from pursuing a big move before the trade deadline.

As the Buccaneers prepare for the upcoming deadline, their chances of acquiring a high-impact edge rusher seem diminished, possibly leading them to explore more modest trade options. Players like Miami's Bradley Chubb remain on the market, but the Buccaneers may shy away from making aggressive moves due to inflated asking prices.

This situation is compounded by the Buccaneers' pressing need for pass rush help to support a struggling offensive line and improve on their defensive performance. With the secondary showing improvement and linebacker issues expected to be addressed in the offseason, the Buccaneers must weigh their options carefully.

The ripple effects of the Eagles' trade for Phillips could leave Tampa Bay quiet as the deadline approaches, as they may resort to bargain shopping rather than pursuing significant trades. Ultimately, the acquisition of Phillips by Philadelphia has not only strengthened their roster but has also created a challenging environment for Tampa Bay as they navigate their needs and potential trade opportunities.