Trent Hendrick, LB, James Madison | 2026 NFL Draft Prospect Zoom Interview
Trent Hendrick is a standout linebacker from James Madison who delivered a dominant 2025 campaign, earning First-Team All-Sun Belt honors and Defensive Player of the Year recognition in the Sun Belt Conference. A team captain and vocal leader, Hendrick anchored one of the nation’s top defenses while maintaining steady production throughout the season. His impact was consistently evident, highlighted by his ability to take over games, including a breakout performance against Georgia Southern where he recorded 11 tackles, 3 sacks, a forced fumble, and a pass breakup, earning Defensive Player of the Week honors. His production, leadership, and reliability were central to James Madison’s rise to national prominence, as the program reached the 2025 College Football Playoff despite being only a few years removed from its transition to the FBS level.
Hendrick’s game is defined by versatility, physicality, and a relentless motor, as he excels against the run, is effective as a blitzer, and shows comfort dropping into coverage. A high-IQ defender, he processes plays quickly and communicates efficiently pre-snap, serving as the unit’s signal-caller. He adds value on special teams, where his speed, toughness, and tackling translate into immediate contributions in coverage units. Hendrick is a strong, explosive athlete who plays with intensity and consistently finishes at the point of attack, supported by an impressive Pro Day that included a 4.59 40-yard dash, a 10-foot-1 broad jump, and 23 bench reps of 225 pounds. With a well-rounded skill set, proven production, and leadership traits, he projects as an intriguing linebacker prospect capable of contributing across multiple phases at the next level.
Content Creator & Senior Writer for NFL Draft Diamonds. Independent Scouting Consultant.