The Chargers made the tough decision to let go of Adrian Phillips this past offseason, who ultimately decided to sign with the Patriots.
After spending six seasons with the Bolts, Phillips has turned out to be a solid addition by New England. Starting all 11 games, the 28-year old leads the team in tackles (70). He also has three passes defenses and three interceptions on the season.
Another former Charger succeeding this morning! Adrian Phillips with the interception for the Patriots.
We miss him.
— Bolt Beat (@BB_Chargers) September 13, 2020
Phillips served as a key defender in his role as the team’s dime linebacker as well as a core special teamer. Given how poor Los Angeles’ special teams unit has been this season, his presence on the field would’ve been beneficial.
Coach Bill Belichick is grateful to have a player like Phillips, calling him “a good addition for us.” Belichick added that he is very instinctive, has a number of roles in our system, is a good football player and great guy to work with.
If Phillips was such an important piece, why did L.A. elect to move on from him? Coach Anthony Lynn explained.
“You never want to lose a player like Adrian,” Lynn said. “But free agency, every year a page is going to turn over in terms of the roster, and sometimes you just can’t keep everyone. He just happened to fall into that category. We liked him a lot, he was very good and productive player for us. We miss him dearly.”
Phillips is a part of a secondary that features reigning Defensive Player of the Year, cornerback Stephon Gilmore and J.C. Jackson, who is second in the NFL in interceptions (6). The Patriots, who are allowing 229.2 yards per game, will be looking to make life difficult for red-hot quarterback Justin Herbert this Sunday.
