Clemson LB Jeremiah Trotter Jr. prepares for NFL draft after impressive college career

CLEMSON, S.C. (WCIV) — As NFL Draft Day approaches this week, a linebacker with South Carolina ties will be eagerly awaiting the results.

Clemson linebacker Jeremiah Trotter Jr. played three seasons for in college for the Clemson Tigers, ultimately deciding to enter the draft after his junior year. He finished his career at Clemson with 202 tackles, 29.5 tackles for loss, 13 sacks, 13 pass breakups, three forced fumbles, and four interceptions, including two pick-sixes, according to his bio on Clemson's website.

Mel Kiper Jr. has Trotter Jr. listed as the No. 2 off-ball linebacker in his position rankings for the upcoming draft, according to ESPN.

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Trotter Jr. is the son of Jeremiah Trotter Sr. who played professionally for the Philadelphia Eagles as a linebacker. He credits his father with teaching him how to be a man and a great football player.

Trotter Jr.'s mother was diagnosed with breast cancer before his junior year of college and later passed away.

"She fought her butt off all the way until the end," Trotter Jr. said. "We're confident that she's still with us in spirit. She's still watching over my dad, and me, and my brother, and my sister, and just smiling down and seeing me with the opportunity that I have today."

The NFL Draft begins Thursday, April 25 at noon.