Questions Arise Upon Trot’s Release

Some serious questions arise from the Eagles' decision to part ways with linebacker Jeremiah Trotter.

Trotter was supposed to anchor a much-improved Eagles linebacking corps which struggled to stop opponents on the ground last year.  The expected emergence of second-year Sam linebacker Chris Gocong along with the free-agent signing of  Will linebacker Takeo Spikes was supposed to create the biggest and best starting trio that the Eagles have had in over a decade.  So much for that prediction.

With two preseason games remaining, Chris Gocong is being seriously challenged by rookie Stewart Bradley for the strong side position and Jeremiah Trotter is history as far as the Eagles are concerned.  Trotter's likely replacement will be sophomore Omar Gaither, who filled in admirably at both middle and weak side linebacker last year.  

The first question that will arise regarding Trotter's replacement will be the size discrepancy.  While Trotter weighs in at over 260 pounds, Gaither tips the scales at a mere 235.  Is this worrisome in and of itself?  Not at all, as many NFL middle linebackers fit within the 235-240 pound range.  Of course, one would like more size there, especially given the Eagles' undersized interior lineman, but 235 will not automatically relegate a middle linebacker to roadkill status. 

Further, the Eagles will gain speed and improve in pass defense due to the move.  The short passes that teams like New Orleans used to eat up the Eagles will be tougher to complete, as the Eagles will no longer have a pass liability in the middle on early downs.  So while the asset that was Trot's size will be sorely missed, there was room for improvement in other areas.  

The next question, the answer for which only time will tell, is that of a leadership vacuum.  Who will step in to fill Trot's role as a vocal leader on the defense?  Brian Dawkins is the obvious candidate, but he is not nearly as vocal as the wood-chopping LB.   Takeo Spikes is a newcomer.  Lito Sheppard and Sheldon Brown are cornerbacks – a position that does not usually "lead" a defense given its location on the periphery of each play.

 A vocal leader needs to emerge on this defense.  If one arises soon, the Eagles defense should be no worse off than last year against the run, and much improved against the pass.