2025 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Jordan Phillips

Jordan Phillips NFL Draft Profile

• College: Maryland
• College Position: Nose Tackle
• Ideal NFL Position: Multiple roles, the best fit is as a 1-tech NT
• Height / Weight: 6'2 / 318 lbs
• Year / Age: RS Sophomore / 20
• Draft Projection: 3rd-4th round
• Where I’d Take Him: Early 2nd round

NFL Combine/Pro Day Results:

**TBD at NFL Combine and Pro Day

Background

Jordan Phillips is one of the most intriguing defensive tackle prospects for the 2024 NFL Draft. Originally a three-star recruit out of high school, Phillips received offers from powerhouse programs like Michigan, Georgia, Alabama, and Florida but committed to Tennessee. After facing limited opportunities there, Phillips transferred to Maryland before the 2023 season, a move that allowed him to showcase his rare athletic abilities and tremendous potential.

Phillips made an immediate impact at Maryland, quickly earning a starting role and turning heads with his raw power and movement skills. At just 20 years old, he already possesses an NFL-ready frame and exceptional athleticism, which earned him the #51 spot on Bruce Feldman’s annual “Freak List.” His background as a high school wrestler and weightlifter is evident in his ability to win with leverage, balance, and brute strength in the trenches. Phillips has reportedly squatted 665 pounds, power cleaned 365 pounds, and overhead pressed 365 pounds for two reps—numbers that underscore his raw power.

If you just looked at the stat sheet, you're probably wondering why I'm even bothering to write a scouting report for this guy. Despite limited production in college (0 sacks in 2 years) and middling PFF grades (71.3 overall grade), Phillips' tape is filled with impactful moments and flashes of dominance. He'll have a chance to showcase his skills and rise up the boards with a strong week at the Shrine Bowl.

More impressive than Jordan Phillips’ on-field performance is how those around him talk about his character and impact.

Maryland Head Coach Mike Locksley didn’t hold back in his praise, drawing a lofty comparison to former Alabama standout and current Washington Commanders star Daron Payne:

“This kid is a manchild. He’s explosive. He’s Daron Payne. He’s a nose tackle, but he’s light and so twitchy.” - Maryland Head Coach Mike Locksley

Phillips has embraced the comparison wholeheartedly:

“I love Daron Payne. That is one of my favorite players. I actually study him a lot now that he plays for the Commanders. He’s very athletic, has great short-area quickness, and is incredibly twitchy at the line of scrimmage. He has that ability to create knock-back and get in the backfield.” - Jordan Phillips

Teammates have also noticed, with fellow defensive lineman Taizse Johnson praising Phillips’ leadership and relentless work ethic, even though he is just a sophomore:

“I feel like Jordan Phillips has been a driving force for [the team], and he just sets the tone for the entire room,” Johnson said. “Jordan’s always working, whether it’s before practice, after practice, and that just resonates throughout not just the [defensive] line, but the whole team.” - Maryland defensive lineman Taizse Johnson

Strengths

• Leverage Mastery: His wrestling background is evident in his ability to consistently win leverage battles.
• Rare Athleticism: Uncommon twitchiness and agility for a 320-pound defensive lineman.
• Anchor Strength: He effectively sinks his hips to hold his ground against double teams.
• Explosive Power: His heavy hands and powerful bull rush can overwhelm offensive linemen.
• Flashes Pass Rush Potential: Showcases a surprisingly tight spin move for a man his size.
• Elite Strength: “Freak List” strength metrics; dominates with upper and lower body power.
• High Ceiling: Just 20 years old, equipped with the tools that defensive line coaches dream of molding.

Weaknesses

• Inexperienced: A raw player who is still learning the nuances of the position.
• Inconsistent Play: Disappears for stretches and struggles with focus.
• Ball Awareness: He needs to improve his ability to locate the ball carrier.
• Limited Production: Lacks gaudy stats; the tools haven’t yet translated into a consistent impact.
• Pass Rush Technique: Relies on raw tools rather than a well-developed plan of attack.