Eagles' Trotter Jr. Prepares for Expanded Playoff Role

Jeremiah Trotter Jr., son of former Eagles linebacker Jeremiah Trotter Sr., is poised to step up in the Philadelphia Eagles' defense following Nakobe Dean's season-ending injury. Trotter Jr., a fifth-round rookie, has been learning under veteran linebackers Zack Baun and Oren Burks, who have been instrumental in his development. While Burks initially replaced Dean, defensive coordinator Vic Fangio is considering giving Trotter Jr. more playing time due to his instincts and readiness. Trotter Jr. has already made impactful plays on special teams, including recovering a fumble during the wild-card win against the Packers. The Eagles are preparing for their divisional-round game against the Rams, and Trotter Jr. could see his role expand as Fangio hints at potential shared duties between Burks and Trotter Jr. This strategic move reflects Fangio's practice philosophy of mixing starters with backups to prepare for in-game scenarios.