Posted at 7:14 a.m., Tuesday, August 21, 2007
NFL: Eagles release linebacker Trotter in surprise move
Associated Press
PHILADELPHIA — Middle linebacker Jeremiah Trotter was released by the Eagles today, a surprising end to the Pro Bowl player's second stint with Philadelphia.Coach Andy Reid informed Trotter of his decision Monday night during an emotional meeting. Trotter was a fan favorite because of his intensity, big hits and candor
"Jeremiah and I have been together for many years and he's played a vital role in helping this team win a lot of football games," Reid said in a statement. "He developed himself into a Pro Bowl middle linebacker through a lot of hard work and desire. In my mind, he will always be a Philadelphia Eagle and I'm sure he feels the same way."
The team scheduled a news conference with Trotter for Tuesday.
The 30-year-old Trotter spent four seasons in Philadelphia before an acrimonious departure as a free agent after the 2001 season. Trotter spent two unsuccessful years with the Washington Redskins, but made amends with Reid and signed a one-year deal with the Eagles following the 2003 season.
He started the 2004 season on special teams but ended up in the Pro Bowl. He had been the starter in the middle since.
The Eagles drafted Trotter out of Stephen F. Austin in the third round in 1998. He became the starting middle linebacker the next season and set a career high with 202 tackles in 1999.
