#15 (the elite trait that college never considered)

 I saw every single snap of Phillips season with the Hurricanes. He was explosive, tall, fast, strong, and yet, despite having a good sack total, he was neutralized more often than not. He just plays to upright and covers to much ground with his stride. Either he ran himself wide of the play, or couldn’t generate the leverage to beat the tackle. I just didn’t think he was a good defensive end. I STILL DON’T.

Every game that he played exclusively at end or olb, he was ineffective, practically the same player I saw in college. Everything changed in the Texans game. The gameplan for his use was an obvious attempt to unlock his elite athleticism by giving him a role he has never had. 

A simple adjustment, “if he can’t be an edge pass rusher, then he will be our inside pass rusher.” And the skies opened, and in an instance he became an elite level game changing player. It makes sense, regardless whether he beats the guard or center, his upright play and speed traveling a shorter distance is a thing of nightmares for a pocket passer. Not to mention, that if he escapes latterly this freak of human nature can out run most anyone in a confined space. 

They line him up inside, they line him up outside and stunt him inside. When he does have edge duty they want him to attack inside. His upright play, his length, his speed going in a straight line has completely unlocked his football potential. He instantly became their best INTERIOR pass rusher.