He chopped wood immediately in his NFL debut, providing a thunderous hit on punt coverage in week one of pre-season action last year. And ever since then, Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Jeremiah Trotter Jr. has been plying his craft while laying the lumber on special teams.

Trotter is currently one of the top fixtures in total special teams tackles leaguewide, as evidenced by his team-leading 18 special teams tackles – placing him tied for fifth overall in the NFL.

While vying for defensive snaps in a stacked linebacker room – one featuring teammates Zack Baun, Nakobe Dean, and first-round rookie Jihaad Campbell – the second-year thumper and son of Eagles icon Jeremiah Trotter continues to make a sizeable impact in the oft-overlooked but crucial third phase of the game – special teams.

Trotter is making a large difference on special teams for the Birds

His knack for key plays in the third phase dates back to that opening hit as a bright-eyed rookie against Baltimore in pre-season action. It would serve as a sign of even bigger things to come.

A massive fumble recovery on the opening kickoff in last year’s Wild Card round win over Green Bay would set the postseason tone. And a booming hit in coverage in the Super Bowl LIX win over the Chiefs left #54 showcasing that signature axe chop on the world’s most significant stage.

This season, Trotter continues to spearhead the Eagles in special teams coverage. While both the kicking game and kickoff return units have struggled, the Clemson alum and his teammates – including Kyle Granson (17 special teams tackles-tied 10th) – have stood tall in both kickoff and punt team coverage.

Biding his time for defensive snaps while developing hasn’t stopped Trotter Jr from making his mark. Laying the lumber and chopping wood remain a family tradition – one that opponents must continue to keep leery of on gameday.

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And with another ticket to the playoffs punched for Trotter and company, keep an eye out for #54 wielding that famed family axe some more in the coming weeks.