Philadelphia Eagles fans have seen their share of legendary defensive standouts, from Brian Dawkins to Jeremiah Trotter Sr., but the future of the defense looks brighter than ever with Jeremiah Trotter Jr. showing signs of greatness.
“I tell him almost every day, best rookie,” Eagles linebacker Zack Baun said in an interview with NBC Philadelphia. “From the snacks to the decorations in the linebacker room. He’s been terrific, and after his play on the field, he came in and no one really knew what to expect from him.”
Though Trotter Jr.’s new team might not have known what to expect, his time at Clemson showcased just what he’s capable of. In 1,413 snaps, Trotter recorded 202 tackles, 13 sacks, three forced fumbles, four interceptions and two pick sixes, making him one of only 14 Football Bowl Subdivision players in the last 20 seasons to record 10 sacks, four interceptions, three forced fumbles and two pick sixes.
After declaring for the 2024 NFL draft at the end of his junior season, the Eagles traded up to select Trotter in the fifth round with the No. 155 overall pick. Trotter signed a four-year, $4,348,468 rookie deal but has primarily seen snaps only on special teams. With limited defensive time, he totaled 25 tackles, a half-sack and a pass deflection.
His name began to be heard more during the last game of the regular season against the New York Giants, where Trotter had 11 total tackles. The biggest impact came in the wild-card round of playoffs against the Green Bay Packers, where Trotter recovered a fumble by kick returner Keisean Nixon on the opening play to set up for the Eagles’ first touchdown of the game.
With star linebacker Nakobe Dean going down with a season-ending injury, Trotter was a strong candidate to take over. Vic Fangio, the Eagles defensive coordinator, believes the same.
“We’re not afraid to put him in there,” Fangio said. “I think Trot’s got a good future, and that future may be now.”
Trotter started the divisional playoff game against the Los Angeles Rams as a linebacker, with everyone on the team having confidence in him as a player.
“It means a lot that the coaches have confidence in my abilities and knowing that they feel that way,” Trotter said. “Especially now that the team needs it, it definitely means a lot.”
During the game, Trotter was seemingly quiet, but whether he’s breaking up plays, delivering crushing tackles or recovering fumbles, the former Clemson standout is quickly proving that he’s not just the son of a legend — he’s a legend in the making.
Along with former Tiger Will Shipley, Trotter will look to help the Eagles try for their second Super Bowl appearance in three seasons, playing the Washington Commanders in the NFC Championship game this Sunday.
