HI loc276,
Welcome to Apple Support Communities. We understand that you're having an issue with connecting your AirPods to your iPhone. We'd like to help.
Have you tried to reset your AirPods? If not, this may help How to reset your AirPods and AirPods Pro - Apple Support. This will allow you to try to clear all connections between the two devices and start again as new.
How to reset your AirPods and AirPods Pro
You might need to reset your AirPods if they won't charge, or to fix a different issue.
1. Put your AirPods in their charging case, and close the lid.
2. Wait 30 seconds.
3. Open the lid of your charging case.
4. On your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch, go to Settings > Bluetooth and tap the More Info button next to your AirPods. (If you don't see your AirPods in Settings > Bluetooth, just go to the next step.)
5. Tap Forget This Device, and tap again to confirm.
6. With the lid open, press and hold the setup button on the back of the case for about 15 seconds, until the status light flashes amber, then white.*
7. Reconnect your AirPods: With your AirPods in their charging case and the lid open, place your AirPods close to your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch. Follow the steps on your device's screen.
Hope that helps.
Cheers!