Eagles Rookie Profile: 6 things to know about Jeremiah Trotter Jr.

The Philadelphia Eagles added to their defense by selecting Jeremiah Trotter Jr. in the 2024 NFL Draft. In order to learn even more about Philly’s new linebacker, I reached out to SB Nation’s Clemson blog: Shakin The Southland. Tigers writer Ryan Kantor was kind enough to answer my questions.

1) Can you recap his college career?

Trotter was a high-four-star prospect that came to Clemson from Joseph’s Preparatory School in North Philadelphia. 247Sports noted at the time that he doesn’t have ideal size, but is a “no-risk prospect and one of the most instinctive LBs in the class. We see him as an impact starter at a top tier program.”

He certainly became an impact starter. He earned nearly 200 snaps as a true freshman and then became the full-time starter at middle linebacker as a sophomore and was Clemson’s best linebacker as a junior. He posted excellent PFF grades of 86.9 and 85.7 as a starter. This past season, Trotter finished second in PFF grade among ACC linebackers.

He had a bit of a slow start to this year when he wasn’t 100% healthy, but was excellent down the stretch. His most memorable play was a pick-six against Sam Hartman and Notre Dame. It largely sealed the upset win for Clemson and sparked their season-ending five-game win streak.

2) What are his strengths?

In his two years as starter, Trotter collected 12 sacks and 4 interceptions, showing off his well-balanced skill-set. He’s not ultra elite at anything per se, but he is very good across the board. He has good speed (4.60 40-yard dash), is a good tackler, and sheds blockers to get to the quarterback.

3) What are his weaknesses?

The question NFL teams have is how he’ll hold up against NFL rushing attacks because of his size (6-0, 228lbs). His lowest PFF grade is on his pass rush, but his 78.7 grade proves he is still strong in that area. So, he didn’t really have any glaring weaknesses at the college-level. Perhaps in the NFL different challenges could expose some, but I can’t really say he has a worrisome weakness at this point.

4) Are you surprised where he was drafted? Higher or lower than expected? Just right?

I’m not surprised because measurables play a huge (perhaps too huge) role in NFL draft decisions. Here’s what I said about Trotter Jr. prior to the draft:

His 4.60 40-yard dash is above average, but all his other NFL combine grades are below the 50th-percentile for the position, particularly his height (6-foot-0) and weight (228lbs). Additionally, linebackers seldom go in the first round and much like running backs tend to fall in the draft. If he dips into the third round, he’ll be a steal.

The Eagles got a steal in the fifth round (pick 155).

5) How do you see his NFL career playing out?

I expect Trotter Jr. to return far more value than his draft slot would imply. Because his size/speed combo doesn’t pop off the chart, he may be precluded from being an elite super star, but I tend to think he’ll become an above average contributor for a handful of years who could perhaps be a slimmer version of his dad.

6) Anything to know about him off the field?

If you haven’t seen it yet, check out the “House Call” video Clemson put together about him and his family. Trotter Jr. is going to be very easy for Philly fans to cheer for.

Lastly, if you like to learn about the next crop of NFL stars before they enter the draft, I’d greatly appreciate anyone who would subscribe to my YouTube channel. Also be sure to check us out over at ShakintheSouthland.com.