New Cowboys DT Jordan Phillips talks adapting to Mike Zimmer defense

The Dallas Cowboys bolstered their defensive line with the recent trade for defensive tackle Jordan Phillips, and he's wasting no time getting familiar.

Following his debut game in a Cowboys uniform, Phillips opened up about adapting to Mike Zimmer's defensive scheme and his transition to his new team.

Phillips explains that he played for defensive coaches in Zimmer's coaching scheme, she he's familiar with what to expect.

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"It's just like riding a bike," he said.

New Cowboys DT Jordan Phillips said he’s familiar with Mike Zimmer’s defensive scheme because he has worked with some other coaches from Zimmer’s coaching tree. “It’s just like riding a bike.”

On why the Cowboys are a good scheme fit for him: “The (3-tech DT) comes off the ball… pic.twitter.com/AToPmc5Xs7
— Jon Machota (@jonmachota) August 20, 2024

Phillips notes he will be playing the 3-tech, and not nose tackle.

Newly signed Cowboys defensive tackle Jordan Phillips said he is here to play the 3tech not the nose. He has history as a 3 in Mike Zimmer's defense under some of his proteges. The Giants scheme was not a fit for him.
— Clarence Hill Jr (@clarencehilljr) August 19, 2024

The Cowboys traded a sixth-round pick to acquire Phillips in a trade involving two 2026 draft picks. The Cowboys also signed former Cincinnati Bengals and New York Jets edge rusher Carl Lawson.

Phillips made his impact felt in his Cowboys debut and is already showing his value for the franchise.

Here is every snap from #DallasCowboys newly acquired DT Jordan Phillips vs Detroit in week one of the preseason pic.twitter.com/XKOqnwbVb3
— Dustin Mosher (@Dustin_Mosher) August 15, 2024

“These guys have played, they got pelts on the wall,” Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy said after making the roster moves. “They have different skill sets, obviously, different position. So, I mean, just like anything, their experience level will definitely be an asset.”

The Miami Dolphins drafted the 31-year-old former second-round pick out of Oklahoma before brief stops with the Buffalo Bills, Arizona Cardinals, and New York Giants.

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