Josiah Trotter

Draft Projection

Measurements

Athletic Testing

College Statistics

Strengths

• Put the tape on against South Carolina and you will see a linebacker who simply erases rushing lanes before they develop.
• Processes run schemes at a level unusual for a redshirt sophomore, diagnosing zone concepts and gap attacks almost before the ball is snapped.
• Attacks blockers with heavy, violent hands that generate immediate separation and knock linemen backward at the point of attack.
• Lower body strength is outstanding; holds his ground against double teams and stays square while absorbing contact from climbing guards.
• Explosive first step allows him to shoot gaps and arrive in the backfield before running backs can redirect or change direction.
• Flexible hips and loose lower half help him squeeze through traffic and redirect quickly when plays bounce outside the initial gap.
• Reliable wrap-up tackler who finishes with authority; rarely gives ball carriers free yards after contact once he arrives.
• Shows legitimate pass rush upside when turned loose on delayed blitzes and zone dogs; heavy hands translate to disruption.

Areas to Improve

• Arm length appears less than ideal for the position, which could limit his ability to control blocks at the next level.
• Lacks true sideline-to-sideline range; more explosive in short areas than fast across the field when plays string out wide.
• Coverage feel remains a work in progress; can be a tick slow to recognize route combinations and gets stacked by athletic tight ends.
• Lateral movement looks somewhat labored at times; not the most fluid mover when asked to mirror receivers or backs in space.
• The 2023 lower leg injury that cost him a full season will warrant medical scrutiny and additional combine testing before draft boards finalize.