Philly Leader

As the Philadelphia Eagles prepare for their upcoming NFC Divisional Round playoff game against the Los Angeles Rams, Oren Burks and Jeremiah Trotter Jr. step up to fill a crucial gap in the team's defense. With Nakobe Dean sidelined due to an injury sustained during the victory over Green Bay, both Burks, a seasoned player with seven years in the league, and Trotter, a rookie, are ready to take on new responsibilities.

Despite not having much playtime this season due to Dean and Zack Baun's performances, Burks emphasized their readiness: "Even though we haven't played a lot this season because Nakobe and Zack (Baun) have done such a great job, we've taken mental reps," he stated. "We've stayed sharp. It's tough to see Nakobe go down; he was playing great football. But the mentality you have to have is that it's next man up, and we're the next men."

The pair had already started in the Week 18 regular-season finale against the Giants, where Burks led with 17 total tackles while Trotter contributed 11 tackles. This experience has helped them prepare for their roles in the high-stakes playoff match.

Facing a formidable Los Angeles offense known for its strategic plays under Head Coach Sean McVay and quarterback Matthew Stafford, both players are aware of what's at stake. Trotter expressed gratitude for his coaches' confidence: "It means a lot that the coaches have confidence in my abilities and knowing that they feel that way...it definitely means a lot." He also highlighted how valuable game reps were for his preparation.

Burks brings familiarity with him from his time with the 49ers as he prepares to face an offense he's encountered before: "Anytime he feels he has a good matchup, he's going to look to exploit it," Burks noted about McVay's strategies.

For Trotter Jr., stepping onto Lincoln Financial Field carries additional significance as it follows in his father’s footsteps—Eagles Hall of Famer Jeremiah Trotter. Reflecting on this legacy momentarily but focused on success: "I was a fan as a kid...it's my job to do everything I can to prepare and help us win."

The Eagles will rely on these two players as they aim for victory against their opponents this Sunday at Lincoln Financial Field.