NFL Draft: Is Jordan Phillips a good fit for the Green Bay Packers?
Feb 21, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Oklahoma defensive lineman Jordan Phillips talks to the media at the 2015 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
Phillips says back is ‘100 percent’
The question with Phillips isn’t to do with his talent or potential to become a star in the NFL – it’s with his health.
Concerns surround a back problem that has troubled him in the past.
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Phillips only played four games in 2013 due to the injury. He did, however, return to play all 13 last season.
Teams are still worried about the issue, as they don’t want to draft a guy that could have injury problems before he’s even taken an NFL snap.
When questioned at the NFL Combine, he said there was “no problem with his back” and that he was “100 percent and ready to go.”
Other than the back concerns, there have also been a few questions over his work ethic. Phillips was also quick to dismiss those worries:
"“Coming out, the question was my work ethic. I feel like at the combine and here I’ve proven I can work.” “I can move a lot better than a lot people out here so I wanted to show my athleticism. Three-hundred-thirty (pounds) normally doesn’t move the way I do.”"
If he is cleared by doctors without concern of a long-term injury, the Packers could pick up a star in the opening couple of rounds with Phillips.
He has the size and strength a nose tackle requires to be successful, but also has athleticism and speed that can take his performances to the next level.
Phillips is a great athlete and seems like a perfect fit for Dom Capers’ 3-4 defense.
He would help bolster the run defense, and with the addition of a talented inside linebacker, the Packers’ defense could rise through the rankings in 2015.
Provided by Sports-Reference.com/CFB: View Original Table
Generated 3/13/2015.