New Arizona Cardinals defensive lineman Jordan Phillips was introduced to the Arizona media via video conference on Monday. There were a few things we learned in that call.
Some are football-related. Some are not.
He’s out to prove he’s the ‘real deal’
Already detailed in a story, Phillips is out to prove in Arizona that his big numbers in 2019 are something he can continue. He had 9.5 sacks, 16 quarterback hits at 13 tackles for loss last season. Some believe it was a fluke or it was him playing for a contract.
Chandler Jones, coaches influenced Phillips’ decision
Obviously, the Cardinals offering Phillips a three-year deal worth $30 million is an important factor why he came to the Cardinals, but Phillips had other teams interested. He said “about four teams” were interested in him.
He also noted multiple football factors for his decision to sign with the Cardinals.
Playing next to Chandler Jones was one. “I wanted an elite pass rusher next to me so we could try and cause some havoc,” he said.
He also noted defensive coordinator Vance Joseph and defensive line coach Brenston Buckner also factored in.
Joseph was Phillips’ defensive coordinator in 2016 with the Miami Dolphins. As for Buckner, “I wanted to play for him. I’ve heard great things about him.”
He was glad to leave the Dolphins
He was released by the Dolphins in 2018 after a Week 4 outburst on the sideline. He said that wasn’t the reason why he was released. He told reporters that before training camp that season he requested a trade or release. They did not do anything until after that.
“What helped my career the most was leaving there,” he said.
He has a newborn daughter and coronavirus has affected things
Phillips has an M.V.P daughter — literally. Her name is Maya V. Phillips.
The restrictions for visits because of the coronavirus has been tough. As people want to visit and meet the baby, Phillips revealed that they have to do it through a window. People come to the house and they show the baby through the window.
He is a really good bowler
Phillips bowls really well and now is part of a league. He says his best game is 299 — one point short of a perfect game — and has gotten in the 270s and 280s. He regularly gets 220s. He won’t be trash-talking any teammates yet about it. He said he will wait until he has formed some friendships.
Listen to the latest from Cards Wire’s Jess Root on his podcast, Rise Up, See Red. Subscribe on Apple podcasts or Stitcher Radio.
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