The Eagles planned to rotate Jeremiah Trotter Jr. with Jihaad Campbell against Jacksonville because Trotter had earned more playing time, defensive coordinator Vic Fangio said Tuesday. Fangio also firmly disputed a broadcast report that Philadelphia intended to start Trotter.
“That is an out and out lie,” Fangio said. “Never said that.”
The distinction matters for an Eagles linebacker group evaluating how to use both players. Fangio described a rotation organized by series rather than specific situations, with Trotter's previous performance providing the reason for the change.
“Trot played good in the start that he had when Zach was out and it was close,” Fangio said, referring to Zack Baun. “I just think he deserves playing time.”
Trotter's opening-kickoff
ejection prevented the Eagles from implementing that plan against the Jaguars. Fangio offered a brief assessment of Campbell's performance, saying he “played okay.” Asked whether reducing Campbell's playing time could hinder his development or affect his response, Fangio said he had no concern. He also declined to compare the situation with a previous postseason linebacker rotation.
Baun's return remained a separate positive for the defense. Fangio praised his overall performance and the fourth-and-goal stop before halftime, calling him one of the league's top linebackers. Fangio's comments establish that the planned rotation was an opportunity for Trotter, rather than confirmation of a starting change. How those series are distributed going forward will be worth watching as Philadelphia prepares for Carolina.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Vic Fangio explains Eagles' plan to rotate Trotter and Jihaad Campbell
