Seahawks Host Top Linebacker Prospect Josiah Trotter

The son of former NFL star Jeremiah Trotter is considered an ascending prospect with a high football IQ.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 4:25am

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting in the style of Pablo Picasso, breaking down the movements and energy of a football linebacker into sharp, overlapping geometric planes.A cubist-inspired illustration captures the raw power and dynamism of a top linebacker prospect as the Seahawks evaluate their draft options.Seattle Today

The Seattle Seahawks are hosting Missouri linebacker Josiah Trotter, the son of former NFL star Jeremiah Trotter, on a top 30 pre-draft visit. Trotter is considered an ascending prospect with a high football IQ and strong leadership abilities, though he may need to improve in pass coverage. The Seahawks are expected to add depth at linebacker in the upcoming draft as they look to build on their Super Bowl LX championship.

Why it matters

The Seahawks have focused heavily on defense under head coach Mike Macdonald, and linebacker is a position they could look to address in the draft. Trotter is viewed as a potential early-round target who could provide an immediate impact, especially in the run game.

The details

Josiah Trotter is the son of former All-Pro linebacker Jeremiah Trotter, who spent 11 seasons in the NFL, including eight with the Philadelphia Eagles. Josiah's brother, Jeremiah Trotter Jr., has been playing for the Eagles for the past two years after being selected in the fifth round of the 2024 draft. Josiah is expected to be drafted higher than his brother, with NFL.com draft guru Lance Zierlein projecting him as a 'productive, long-time starter in the middle' despite some concerns about his coverage abilities.

  • Josiah Trotter is visiting the Seahawks on Saturday, April 11, 2026.

The players

Josiah Trotter

A linebacker prospect out of Missouri who is the son of former NFL star Jeremiah Trotter. Josiah is considered an ascending prospect with a high football IQ and strong leadership abilities.

Jeremiah Trotter

Josiah Trotter's father, a former All-Pro linebacker who spent 11 seasons in the NFL, including eight with the Philadelphia Eagles.

Jeremiah Trotter Jr.

Josiah Trotter's brother, who has been playing for the Philadelphia Eagles for the past two years after being selected in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL draft.

Mike Macdonald

The head coach of the Seattle Seahawks, who has led the team's defensive-focused approach since taking over in 2024.

Drake Maye

The quarterback of the New England Patriots, who struggled against Macdonald's defense in Super Bowl LX.

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What they’re saying

“Trotter is expected to go higher in the draft than his brother did, with Jeremiah Jr. being selected in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL draft out of Clemson. Josiah is considered an ascending linebacker with a high football IQ and strong leadership.”

— Lance Zierlein, NFL.com draft guru

“Josiah is expected to be drafted higher than his brother, with NFL.com draft guru Lance Zierlein projecting him as a 'productive, long-time starter in the middle' despite some concerns about his coverage abilities.”

— Alexandre Castro, Field Gulls writer

What’s next

The Seahawks will continue to evaluate Josiah Trotter and other linebacker prospects as they prepare for the 2026 NFL draft, where they are expected to add depth to the position.

The takeaway

The Seahawks' interest in Josiah Trotter highlights their focus on strengthening their defense through the draft, as they look to build on their recent Super Bowl championship. Trotter's pedigree and potential make him an intriguing prospect, though his coverage skills will be an area of emphasis as the team evaluates his fit.