Jaelan Phillips, the Miami Dolphins linebacker, is gearing up for the 2025 season after battling injuries in back-to-back years, including a torn Achilles and a torn ACL. While he showed commendable progress in recovery, the serious nature of these injuries raises concerns about his long-term durability, especially given his previous first-round draft status and current contract situation.

Next season, Phillips will play on his fifth-year option, currently set at $13.3 million. His injury history complicates the Dolphins' decision regarding a potential contract extension. Historically, when healthy, Phillips has showcased exceptional talent both on the field and within the community, highlighted by his nomination for the Ed Block Courage Award. However, the Dolphins may opt to wait until Phillips proves he can return to form before committing to a long-term deal.

The Atlanta Falcons have appointed Jeff Ulbrich as their new defensive coordinator, emphasizing the need for improved pressure on the defensive line. With the Falcons slated to pick 15th in the upcoming NFL Draft, they are eyeing standout edge rusher Mykel Williams from Georgia. Despite a dismal 31st ranking in sacks last season, Williams is noted for his unique blend of height, athleticism, and run-stopping prowess, having recorded five sacks and 15 quarterback pressures in 2024.

Williams, a former five-star recruit and two-time second-team All-SEC honoree, could significantly bolster the Falcons' defense. However, experts suggest that Atlanta may face tough competition for his services, as projections indicate he could be scooped up by the Carolina Panthers with the eighth overall pick.

The Miami Dolphins have made significant changes to their coaching staff following the 2024 season, with defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver pursuing a head coaching position with the New Orleans Saints. Weaver's assistant, Ryan Crow, is also in the spotlight as the New England Patriots seek to interview him for their defensive coordinator role after hiring Mike Vrabel as their head coach.

Crow, who just completed his first season as outside linebackers coach for the Dolphins, previously worked with Vrabel during his tenure with the Tennessee Titans. Despite facing challenges with injury-plagued star pass rushers, Crow played a key role in the development of rookie Chop Robinson, helping him emerge as a crucial player in Miami's pass rush. Meanwhile, the Dolphins face additional vacancies on their coaching staff following the dismissals of special teams coordinator Danny Crossman and wide receivers coach Wes Welker.

The Miami Dolphins showcased remarkable resilience in the 2024 season, finishing fourth in total defense despite significant absences from their star pass rushers Bradley Chubb and Jaelan Phillips. Both players are looking optimistically toward the future, particularly with the promising emergence of rookie Chop Robinson. Chubb's recovery from a torn ACL sidelined him entirely, while Phillips returned from an Achilles tear only to suffer an ACL injury himself.

With the Dolphins already having secured Phillips for his fifth year and Robinson entering his second season, the potential for a formidable defense in 2025 is palpable. Phillips expressed excitement about the possibilities of working alongside Chubb and Robinson, emphasizing their ability to build a strong unit together in the offseason. Chubb echoed this sentiment but also raised concerns about his hefty contract, which presents future salary cap challenges for the Dolphins.

Zach Sieler has made history by being named the Dan Marino Most Valuable Player for the 2024 Miami Dolphins, becoming only the second defensive tackle in franchise history to receive this honor, following Ndamukong Suh's win in 2017. Heading into the final game of the season against the New York Jets, Sieler leads the Dolphins with 8.5 sacks, ranking third among NFL interior defensive linemen. His impressive stats also include 12 tackles for loss and 17 quarterback hits, while he has tied for the most tackles among Dolphins defensive linemen.

Calais Campbell has received the Don Shula Leadership Award for 2024, marking him as the first defensive tackle to earn this accolade. At age 38, Campbell is the oldest player to win the award, demonstrating significant leadership since joining the team shortly before training camp. Jaelan Phillips has been honored with the Ed Block Courage Award, showcasing his resilience after suffering back-to-back season-ending injuries. Additionally, Terron Armstead has been recognized with the Nat Moore Community Service Award for his commitment to the South Florida community.