Introduction
Harrison Phillips has carved out a reputation as a hard-nosed, reliable defensive tackle in the NFL. Known for his strength, leadership, and community contributions, Phillips’ journey spans from his time at Stanford to his current status following a recent trade from the Vikings to the Jets. In this article, we’ll explore his draft history, Madden rating, Vikings tenure, contract and salary, and what the 2025 trade signifies. Dive in for an in-depth look at this standout athlete.
1. Draft: Rising From Stanford to the NFL
Phillips’ professional journey began at Stanford, where he impressed scouts at the Senior Bowl and the NFL Combine—particularly with a standout 42 bench press reps, leading all participants. Entering the 2018 NFL Draft, Phillips was projected as a mid-round pick and ultimately was selected by the Buffalo Bills in the third round (96th overall).
He signed a standard four-year rookie deal worth around $3.34 million, including a signing bonus of $775,040. Early in his career, he served in a rotational role, but a torn ACL in 2019 halted his momentum. Despite the setback, Phillips persevered, securing a starting role as his career progressed.
2. Vikings Years: Leadership and Performance
2.1 Signing and Role Growth
In March 2022, Phillips signed a three-year, $19.5 million contract with the Minnesota Vikings, including a $7 million signing bonus and over $12.9 million guaranteed.
2.2 On-Field Impact
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2022 Season: Started all 17 games, totalling 59 tackles and 1.5 sacks.
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2023 Season: Posted career-high 92 tackles and 3 sacks, highlighting his growing impact.
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By September 2024, he had started every game since joining the Vikings, with cumulative career stats of 263 tackles, 7 sacks, and 4 fumble recoveries.
2.3 Extension and Leadership
On September 10, 2024, the Vikings secured Phillips via a two-year extension through 2026, reported to be worth up to $19 million, with over $13 million guaranteed. Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores praised him for his on- and off-field leadership.
The contract’s structure provided cap flexibility—for instance, a signing bonus of ~$5 million, base salary ramps, and manageable post-2025 dead cap if the team releases or trades him.
Beyond his performance, Phillips was also the Vikings’ 2023 nominee for the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award for his community work.
3. Madden Rating: Digital Profile Reflecting Real-World Strength
Phillips’ presence extends into the virtual gridiron. In Madden NFL 25, he earned an OVR rating of 77, reflecting solid performance metrics. By Madden NFL 26, his rating increased to 78.
Key attributes in Madden 26 include:
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Strength: 93
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Tackle: 87
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Block Shedding: 79, Pursuit: 80, Hit Power: 78.
These stats underscore his on-field reputation as a strong, agile, and durable defensive tackle.
4. Salary & Contract Breakdown
4.1 Rookie Earnings
Phillips’ initial deal with Buffalo was modest: a four-year, ~$3.34 million contract with a $775k signing bonus.
4.2 First Vikings Contract
His 2022 Vikings signing delivered $19.5 million over three years, with $7 million as a signing bonus and $12.9 million guaranteed. Harrison Phillips Vikings.
4.3 2024 Extension
The two-year extension signed in September 2024 was valued at up to $19 million, with significant guarantees—over $13 million.
Details from Spotrac reveal his average annual salary on the extension is $7.5 million, with a 2025 base salary of $7 million, and cap hit of ~$9.68 million.
Salary/Summary Table:
| Contract Period | Duration | Value | Guaranteed/Signing Bonus | Avg. Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rookie (Bills, 2018) | 4 years | ~$3.34M | $775K | ~$835K |
| Vikings (2022–2024) | 3 years | $19.5M | $7M + $12.9M guaranteed | ~$6.5M |
| Extension (2024–2026) | 2 years | Up to $19M | Over $13M guaranteed | $7.5M |
Career earnings have reached well into the millions—estimates show total earnings of ~$23–24 million to date. Harrison Phillips Vikings.
5. 2025 Trade: A New Chapter with the Jets
On August 20, 2025, the Vikings traded Harrison Phillips to the New York Jets, along with a 2027 seventh-round pick, in exchange for two sixth-round picks (2026 + 2027).
Notably, the Vikings agreed to cover $3.7 million of his $7.4 million salary in 2025, giving the Jets cap relief while securing his experience up front.
This move marks a pivotal shift, as Phillips transitions from a long-standing Vikings leader to bolstering the Jets’ interior line.
6. Why Harrison Phillips Is Worth Watching
Reliability & Durability
Phillips has started all games since joining the Vikings in 2022, demonstrating high durability and dependability. Harrison Phillips Vikings.
Leadership & Community Impact
His recognition as a Man of the Year nominee and nomination for charitable work highlight his off-field importance.
Financial Value
His contracts reflect a consistent increase in value, matching his growing impact both on and off the field.
Madden Validation
His solid Madden ratings (77–78 OVR) and strong defensive attributes echo his real-world performance.
FAQs
Q1: What was Harrison Phillips’ draft position and background?
He was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the third round (96th overall) of the 2018 NFL Draft, coming out of Stanford where he excelled at events like the Senior Bowl and NFL Combine.
Q2: What were his Madden NFL ratings?
He had an OVR rating of 77 in Madden NFL 25, which increased to 78 in Madden NFL 26. His standout in-game attributes include Strength (93) and Tackle (87).
Q3: How much has he earned in his NFL career?
Phillips has signed multiple deals: a rookie contract (~$3.34M), a 2022 Vikings deal ($19.5M), and a 2024 extension (up to $19M). His average salary now stands at ~$7.5M, with cumulative earnings around $23–24M.
Q4: Why was he traded to the Jets in 2025?
The Vikings traded him to the Jets for two sixth-round picks (2026, 2027). They agreed to pay half of his 2025 salary ($3.7M of $7.4M), giving the Jets financial flexibility while acquiring a reliable interior defensive lineman.
Q5: What makes Phillips valuable beyond football?
He’s a recognized leader and charitable figure, being a Walter Payton Man of the Year nominee, praised for his professionalism, locker-room presence, and community contributions.
Conclusion
Harrison Phillips’ journey—from Stanford standout to dependable NFL stalwart—reflects a blend of on-field performance, leadership, and financial growth. With solid Madden ratings and consistent real-world production, his move to the Jets begins a new chapter. Keep an eye on how his veteran presence impacts New York’s defensive front.
