Sun Belt Defensive MVP Trent Hendrick Anchors JMU’s Playoff-Ready Defense with Explosive Intensity
Trent Hendrick, the 2025 Sun Belt Defensive Player of the Year and Group of Five All-American, is a senior linebacker for James Madison who brings elite intensity, vocal leadership, and explosive playmaking to the nation’s top defenses. In 2025, he recorded 86 total tackles (7.82/game), 6.0 TFLs, 3.0 sacks, 1 forced fumble, and 1 pass breakup across 11 games, including a breakout 11-tackle, 3-sack, forced-fumble performance against Georgia Southern that earned Defensive Player of the Week honors. At 6’0”, 234 lbs, he combines a 4.59 40-yard dash, 10’1” broad jump, and 23 bench reps with relentless point-of-attack finishing. As a team captain, he’s injury-free, consistently dominant, and a perfect fit for teams seeking a high-intensity, game-taking linebacker who elevates the entire defense.
