This offseason, you’ve heard a lot about Clemson’s dynamic duo at linebacker, and for a good reason, the Tigers have the best linebacker unit in the country, and two stars lead it.
Jeremiah Trotter Jr. and Barrett Carter are both two of the best players at the position, with many considering Trotter the best linebacker in college football. While Trotter is the top dog, Carter isn’t far behind him, and many consider him the top linebacker prospect for the 2024 NFL Draft.
Heading into the 2023 college football season, PFF ranked the top 50 players in CFB, with both Trotter and Carter making the list. Trotter ranked the highest, landing at No.12 in the country.
Jeremiah Trotter Sr. was an All-Pro linebacker for the Philadelphia Eagles, so it shouldn’t come as much of a surprise that his son is the best linebacker in college football.
The younger Trotter was the only Power Five linebacker last year to earn 80.0-plus grades both in coverage and as a pass rusher. His 42.9 passer rating allowed ranked second among that group.
Carter was lower on the rankings, landing in the No.33 slot. You can definitely make an argument that he could have ranked higher here.
Carter is one of college football’s most well-rounded linebackers. The sophomore was one of only three in the Power Five who earned 75.0-plus grades in run defense, pass rush and coverage. His seven combined interceptions and forced incompletions tied for the most among FBS linebackers, as well.
This duo will lead the Tigers’ defense in 2023, and when you have two guys like this running the defense, your team is in good hands. Clemson’s linebackers will show out again in the upcoming season.
[lawrence-auto-related count=1]