Remember all the offseason concerns surrounding the "depth problems" for the Philadelphia Eagles' linebackers? Not sure many have that concern anymore.
Eagles linebacker Jeremiah Trotter Jr. is a significant reason for that, as fans are being reminded of his father and how he used to play for Philly back in the day. Throughout training camp, Trotter has consistently played well and been praised for his ability to stop the run.
Thursday's joint practice with the Cleveland Browns did not go well by all indications, but Trotter was called out multiple times for looking like the star of the practice for the Eagles. CBS Sports' Jeff Kerr was among those who credited Trotter with a great practice.
"Thought Jeremiah Trotter Jr. has an outstanding day against the offense. Was in on many of the run plays."
Thought Jeremiah Trotter Jr. has an outstanding day against the #Browns offense. Was in on many of the run plays.
— Jeff Kerr (@JeffKerrCBS) August 14, 2025
Jihaad Campbell also made an impact as an edge rusher when #Eagles had five-man front. Good joint practices for Josh Uche and Azeez Ojulari too.
Inside the Birds' Andrew DiCecco added on to Trotter's ability to be involved on every play.
"Jeremiah Trotter Jr. having an outstanding practice so far. All over the field."
Jeremiah Trotter Jr. having an outstanding practice so far. All over the field.
— Andrew DiCecco (@AndrewDiCecco) August 14, 2025
Bleeding Green Nation's Brandon Lee Gowton also wasn't shy in talking about how good Trotter's instincts are.
"Jeremiah Trotter Jr. has been an awesome run defender all offseason long. Always in the right place."
Jeremiah Trotter Jr. has been an awesome run defender all offseason long. Always in the right place.#Eagles
— Brandon Lee Gowton (@BrandonGowton) August 14, 2025
Is Trotter going to be a Day 1 starter in 2025 for the Eagles?
Last year, Trotter was more of a special teams guy in his rookie season, as he only took 104 snaps on defense. He finished with 25 tackles, one quarterback hit, and one pass deflection in 17 games and one start.
Nakobe Dean's recovery from his injury late last year had propelled Trotter to be in the starting lineup. Some believed after the Eagles selected Jihaad Campbell in the first round of this year's draft that he might be able to jump Trotter on the depth chart.
While Campbell has been great with some even saying he's been too aggressive in training camp, Trotter has been consistent. There have been days when Zack Baun has sat out of practice, and Trotter has done a great job of picking up the slack and doing well.
Dean has been seen doing sprints before practice in training camp, but it's unknown whether he will be ready for the regular season yet. Trotter is making it easier for the Eagles to be cautious and let Dean rest until he is 100% recovered.
Read more: Eagles' memorable training camp comeback story is getting hard to ignore
The real question is, with Dean being on a contract year, will the Eagles bring him back at the rate that Trotter is playing? That question will have to be answered at the end of the year when Trotter has had real-time playing on defense. So far, Trotter looks excellent and has developed nicely.
