Josiah Trotter's Journey: From College Standout to NFL Prospect
In the heart of Indianapolis, Josiah Trotter is stepping into a world he's known since childhood-the NFL Scouting Combine. This milestone comes sooner than expected for the 20-year-old Missouri linebacker, who’s grown up immersed in professional football. With his father, Jeremiah, a 12-year NFL veteran, and his brother, Jeremiah Jr., already in the league, Trotter is no stranger to the process.
At the combine, Trotter is showcasing his skills and meeting with teams, positioning himself as a potential second- or third-round pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. Reflecting on the experience, he emphasizes the importance of savoring the moment while understanding how teams evaluate talent.
“It’s been good,” Trotter shares. “Just grateful to be around other guys that are talented, meeting with teams and enjoying the experience.”
Trotter's journey to the draft accelerated after a standout season at Missouri. Transferring from West Virginia, he quickly became a defensive leader for the Tigers, leading the team in tackles. After thoughtful discussions with his family, he decided to enter the draft, foregoing his remaining college eligibility.
“It was a big decision for me and my dad,” Trotter explains. “We wanted to pray about it and really do our homework before making that decision.”
Despite the family legacy, Trotter doesn’t feel pressured. Instead, he views his path as a continuation of that legacy. “It’s just fun to carry that legacy and keep it going,” he says.
This perspective shines through in his combine interviews, where he leans on lessons from home: patience, trust, and readiness. His strategy is simple: excel in the role given and let it evolve.
Trotter’s move to Missouri was strategic, aimed at long-term NFL preparation. He sought programs that could mirror the professional style, particularly in the SEC and Big Ten. At Missouri, he anchored the defense in one of college football’s toughest conferences, honing his skills in recovery and film study.
“Transferring to Missouri was almost like rolling the ball into the NFL,” Trotter notes. “You’re the new guy. You’ve got to learn the playbook, build relationships, and find ways to lead.”
Former teammate Chris McClellan recalls Trotter’s immediate impact, noting his urgency and instinctive play. “His instincts are amazing,” McClellan says. “He just pulls the trigger.”
Trotter’s aggressive play style is intentional, particularly as a blitzer. “From a young age, I always wanted to be a pass rusher,” he shares. “Whether it’s blitzing guards, centers, or off the edge, I take pride in that part of my game.”
At 20, Trotter is one of the youngest prospects, but he sees his youth as an advantage. He describes himself as mature with significant potential still ahead.
His upside has attracted interest from numerous teams, including the Buccaneers, Cowboys, Ravens, and Giants. A standout interview with Denver focused on in-depth film analysis, something Trotter relishes.
“With Denver, we watched a lot of film,” he recalls. “Good plays, bad plays. I enjoy talking ball like that.”
While the feedback has been positive, Trotter remains grounded, focusing on the process rather than projections.
“I’m hearing good things,” he says. “But I’m just trusting the process and letting the chips fall where they may.”
As the combine progresses, Trotter is committed to staying present, a lesson he’s embraced throughout his career. “Everything happens when it’s supposed to,” he reflects. “Just be where your feet are.”