The Tampa Bay Buccaneers checked plenty of boxes during the 2026 NFL Draft. First-round pick Rueben Bain Jr. deservedly grabbed most of the headlines, but another selection could eventually prove just as valuable.
Second-round linebacker Josiah Trotter has all the ingredients to outperform his draft position. If his college production carries over to the NFL, Tampa Bay may have landed one of the biggest steals in the entire draft.
The Buccaneers officially signed Trotter in May, completing contracts for all seven members of their 2026 draft class. While rookie signings are routine, this one marked the beginning of what could become a very productive career.
College Production Speaks for Itself
Trotter didn’t arrive in Tampa Bay because of his last name.
He earned his draft status with his play at Missouri.
During his final season, Trotter led the Tigers with 84 tackles and recorded 13 tackles for loss. He also earned First-Team All-SEC honors while facing some of the nation’s toughest offenses every week.
His game translates well to the NFL.
Trotter is a physical run defender, attacks downhill without hesitation, and has shown the ability to pressure quarterbacks as a blitzer. Those are traits Todd Bowles values in his linebackers.
A Perfect Fit for Todd Bowles’ Defense
Landing in Tampa Bay may be just as important as where Trotter was drafted.
Bowles has consistently developed linebackers who can play aggressively and create negative plays. His defense asks linebackers to attack, disguise pressure, and play fast.
Those strengths fit Trotter’s skill set almost perfectly.
With veteran Alex Anzalone expected to lead the room, Trotter won’t have to carry the defense immediately. Instead, he can develop while competing for meaningful snaps.
That could be the ideal situation for a young linebacker.
NFL Bloodlines Don’t Hurt
Trotter also brings something many rookies cannot.
His father, Jeremiah Trotter, enjoyed an outstanding NFL career, giving Josiah firsthand knowledge of what it takes to succeed at the professional level.
NFL bloodlines never guarantee success.
However, growing up around the league often gives young players a better understanding of preparation, professionalism, and the daily work required to stay in the NFL.
Those lessons can become valuable once training camp begins.
The Opportunity Is There
Josiah Trotter enters camp with a legitimate chance to earn defensive snaps.
If he quickly gains Bowles’ trust, his role could expand throughout the season. His versatility against the run and as a blitzer gives the coaching staff multiple ways to use him.
Jason Licht has built a reputation for finding impact players outside the first round. Antoine Winfield Jr. is one of the best examples, and Tampa Bay has repeatedly found quality starters on Day 2 of the draft.
It’s far too early to place Trotter in that category.
Still, if his college production translates to Sundays, the Buccaneers may eventually view him as one of the best value selections from the 2026 NFL Draft.
Thanks to Bucs Report writer By JR Garner for more of his work click here!
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