The Philadelphia Eagles added to their protection by deciding on Jeremiah Trotter Jr. within the 2024 NFL Draft. With a purpose to study much more about Philly’s new linebacker, I reached out to SB Nation’s Clemson weblog: Shakin The Southland. Tigers author Ryan Kantor was sort sufficient to reply my questions.
1) Are you able to recap his faculty profession?
Trotter was a high-four-star prospect that got here to Clemson from Joseph’s Preparatory Faculty in North Philadelphia. 247Sports famous on the time that he doesn’t have ultimate measurement, however is a “no-risk prospect and probably the most instinctive LBs within the class. We see him as an influence starter at a prime tier program.”
He definitely turned an influence starter. He earned almost 200 snaps as a real freshman after which turned the full-time starter at center linebacker as a sophomore and was Clemson’s finest linebacker as a junior. He posted wonderful PFF grades of 86.9 and 85.7 as a starter. This previous season, Trotter completed second in PFF grade amongst ACC linebackers.
He had a little bit of a sluggish begin to this 12 months when he wasn’t 100% wholesome, however was wonderful down the stretch. His most memorable play was a pick-six towards 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, exhibiting off his well-balanced skill-set. He’s not extremely elite at something per se, however he is superb throughout the board. He has good pace (4.60 40-yard sprint), is an efficient tackler, and sheds blockers to get to the quarterback.
3) What are his weaknesses?
The query NFL groups have is how he’ll maintain up towards NFL dashing assaults due to his measurement (6-0, 228lbs). His lowest PFF grade is on his move rush, however his 78.7 grade proves he’s nonetheless sturdy in that space. So, he didn’t actually have any evident weaknesses on the college-level. Maybe within the NFL totally different challenges may expose some, however I can’t actually say he has a worrisome weak point at this level.
4) Are you stunned the place he was drafted? Larger or decrease than anticipated? Excellent?
I’m not stunned as a result of measurables play an enormous (maybe too enormous) position in NFL draft choices. Right here’s what I stated about Trotter Jr. previous to the draft:
His 4.60 40-yard sprint is above common, however all his different NFL mix grades are beneath the Fiftieth-percentile for the place, notably his peak (6-foot-0) and weight (228lbs). Moreover, linebackers seldom go within the first spherical and very like operating backs are inclined to fall within the draft. If he dips into the third spherical, he’ll be a steal.
The Eagles bought a steal within the fifth spherical (choose 155).
5) How do you see his NFL profession taking part in out?
I anticipate Trotter Jr. to return much more worth than his draft slot would indicate. As a result of his measurement/pace combo doesn’t pop off the chart, he could also be precluded from being an elite tremendous star, however I are inclined to assume he’ll turn out to be an above common contributor for a handful of years who may maybe be a slimmer model of his dad.
6) Something to find out about him off the sector?
In the event you haven’t seen it but, try the “Home Name” video Clemson put collectively about him and his household. Trotter Jr. goes to be very simple for Philly followers to cheer for.
Lastly, in case you wish to study in regards to the subsequent crop of NFL stars earlier than they enter the draft, I’d significantly respect anybody who would subscribe to my YouTube channel. Additionally make sure to test us out over at ShakintheSouthland.com.
