Grading the selection of LB Josiah Trotter by the Bucs
The Bucs went linebacker in Josiah Trotter in Round 2 and we have a grade for the selection.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers continued to build on a clear defensive identity on Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft, selecting Missouri linebacker Josiah Trotter in the second round. The move fills a major need—but comes with just enough question marks to land at a B- . After landing edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr.
in the first round , a pick widely praised for matching elite talent with a major need, the Bucs doubled down on defense with another tone-setting addition. This time, it’s in the middle of the defense. Trotter brings exactly what Tampa Bay has been searching for this offseason: size, physicality, and a nastier edge.
At 6-foot-2, 240 pounds, he has the build and play style of a classic downhill linebacker. His instincts and football IQ consistently show up on tape, allowing him to trigger quickly and attack running lanes. Once he sees it, he has the speed to go sideline to sideline and make plays.
That downhill ability should translate early. The fit alongside Alex Anzalone is what makes this pick particularly interesting. Anzalone projects as more of a coverage-focused linebacker, which allows Trotter to lean into his strengths as a physical presence in the box.