Quarterbacks Beware, Jaelan Phillips is coming to UCLA. At a striking 6’5’’, 235 lbs, Phillips inflicts pain on every quarterback in his way. Last season with his high school, Redlands East Valley High School (Redlands, CA), Phillips had 10.5 sacks along with two interceptions, but he’s not done yet. “I’m always playing 100%. I have a really high motor,” says Phillips. “I need to get stronger and build my repertoire so that I can speed rush, power rush, or anything else.”

Ranked as the #3 prospect in the Class of 2017, there is no denying that Phillips is one of the most highly touted recruits in his class. However, only a few months ago, nobody could’ve guessed that he would be a top-five prospect. Earlier this year, Phillips was unranked by ESPN and although he had many scholarship offers, he was not considered to be a blue chip recruit. Now, there is no denying that Jaelan Phillips is at the top of his class.

 

    Phillips has always been a Bruin fan. Both his parents went to UCLA and there is no doubt that they had a big influence on his decision. “Honestly, for me, I grew up a UCLA fan. Both my parents went to UCLA,” says Phillips. “For me, it’s like a family seal.”

Despite his family ties to UCLA, there was a lot more to his decision. Expressing his interest in broadcasting, Phillips cited the Los Angeles network as a deciding factor in his decision. Throughout the whole process, Phillips showed his maturity, along with a great ability to maintain a good relationship with all of the schools that recruited him. “My advice to other high school athletes would be to try and be real with the coaches. Don’t burn bridges, keep all of the relationships and don’t hurt any of them.” added the UCLA commit.

 

    After committing to UCLA earlier this year, Phillips has his senior year to focus solely on football and school. Finding a balance between school and sports is something that Phillips has definitely excelled in throughout high school, as he says, “I just have to prioritize,” he continued. “I’m naturally smart, so it comes naturally to me, but when I need to, I study. I get what I need to be done in class.”

Whether he’s on the field or in the classroom, he always puts forth his full effort, which has led to scouts all across the country buzzing about his potential. Nearly every media outlet has Phillips labeled as a 5-star recruit after a junior season for the ages. “I’ve always felt a pressure to succeed,” explained the defensive end. “I just need to keep that status and work hard to maintain it. I want to prove to people how good I can be.”

 

    He now has the chance to show the nation how good he can be. Already committed to play in the 2017 Army All- American Game, Phillips has his first real opportunity to prove that he can compete with the best of them. “Obviously, I want to get to the top, but I know that there’s a target on my back, so I’m working hard to maintain that status.” said Phillips.

With his senior year nearing closer and closer, Jaelan Phillips is prepared to unleash his full power and justify his five-star status. Jaelan Phillips is clearly a player to look out for in the Class of 2017, as he attempts to take UCLA back to the top of the Pac-12 after high school. If Jaelan Phillips can keep this up, then "Quarterbacks Beware".