Josiah

Trotter

Trotter (6’2/237) produced like a classic downhill MIKE, logging 89 tackles with 10.5 TFLs, 13 run stops and 11 havoc plays while anchoring the front with a 65.9 percent run-tackle share. His 89.0 percent tackle rate reflects a controlled, square finisher who consistently arrives with leverage and balance in tight quarters. Trotter adds real blitz value, generating nine pressures on just 53 rushes (17.0 percent pressure rate) with two sacks and three sacks created, showing urgency and timing attacking interior gaps. He plays with a diagnostic trigger versus the run, quickly keying blocking schemes and leveraging his frame to slip or shock blockers despite not being an overwhelming athlete. However, Trotter’s profile flips in coverage, where inconsistent route recognition and delayed processing leave him vulnerable to backs and tight ends on dynamic patterns. He projects as an early-down run-stopping linebacker with subpackage blitz utility, whose path to a three-down role will hinge on improving spatial awareness and anticipation in coverage.

Trotter (6'2/225) told 247Sports that he would prefer not to waste the time of other programs which haven’t made the same kind of impression and connection as the above four finalists for his pledge. The last name should be a familiar one, as his father played in the NFL for 12 seasons across the late ‘90s and aughts. His brother, Jeremiah Trotter Jr., was a top-50 recruit in the 2021 and signed on with Clemson over the winter. That Clemson also graces the top-four of baby brother Josiah’s hierarchy is noteworthy. The Philly native has taken June unofficial visits to Clemson, Penn State and most recently, South Carolina, who extended an offer on Monday. There is still so much time before things get real in the 2023 class, but at least for now, Trotter seems to have an idea of what he wants and doesn’t want in a program. On the 247Sports composite board, Trotter ranks as the No. 120 overall prospect for the upcoming cycle.