The Los Angeles Chargers have bolstered their linebacker depth by reaching an agreement with another gifted veteran. The move adds experience and versatility to the Chargers’ defense while also strengthening their special teams unit.
He brings with him a solid NFL résumé, having appeared in 72 career games, including postseason matchups, during his stints with the Houston Texans, Baltimore Ravens, New York Jets, and Buffalo Bills. Originally entering the league as an undrafted free agent with the Atlanta Falcons in 2019, the 27-year-old linebacker has steadily carved out a role in the league thanks to his work ethic, physicality, and ability to contribute on both defense and special teams.
Over the course of his professional career, he has recorded 42 total tackles (20 solo), along with a sack, a quarterback hit, four tackles for loss, a forced fumble, and two fumble recoveries. While he has been a rotational linebacker at times, his biggest impact has come on special teams, where he has logged an impressive 1,389 snaps and registered 34 tackles. His postseason experience further highlights his value, as he has played in three playoff games, tallying a solo tackle, a tackle for loss, three special teams tackles, and even recording a safety.
Del’Shawn Phillips’ football journey began at the collegiate level, where he showcased his defensive skills at the University of Illinois from 2017 to 2018. During his two seasons with the Fighting Illini, he appeared in 23 games (21 starts), amassing 180 total tackles (91 solo), 2.5 sacks, four interceptions, five passes defensed, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. Before transferring to Illinois, he played at Garden City Community College in Kansas, where he played a crucial role in leading the team to an NJCAA National Championship in 2016. That season, he was a defensive standout, leading the Broncbusters with 95 tackles (52 solo), 12.5 tackles for loss, and two forced fumbles, while also contributing two sacks, three interceptions, four passes defensed, and a fumble recovery.
With the Chargers looking to enhance their linebacker depth and solidify their special teams unit, Phillips’ addition is expected to provide valuable competition and depth at the position. His experience in multiple defensive systems, along with his ability to contribute in key situations, makes him a solid addition to Los Angeles’ roster.
Leave a Reply