The Tampa Bay Buccaneers continue to build their defense with a clear purpose. With the 46th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, they selected Josiah Trotter, an inside linebacker with NFL DNA and a profile that perfectly fits what Tampa needs after an offseason marked by changes in the center of the defense.
A Generational Shift Underway
Lavonte David s departure left a huge void, not only in terms of production but also in terms of leadership. Therefore, the selection of Josiah Trotter Bucs directly addresses this structural need: finding the next “MIKE” to lead the defense for the next decade.
Trotter also comes with a powerful legacy. He is the son of Jeremiah Trotter Sr., a four-time Pro Bowler, and the brother of Jeremiah Trotter Jr. This is no coincidence: this is pure linebacker heritage.
Profile: Physical, Instinctive, And Aggressive
Josiah Trotter Bucs is no ordinary prospect. At just 21 years old, he boasts a well-developed physique (1.88m and approximately 107kg) and, above all, an aggressive mentality that shines through on every snap.
In his final year at Missouri:
- 84 tackles
- 13 tackles for loss
- 2 sacks
- First Team All-SEC
And before that, in West Virginia:
- Freshman All-American
- Big 12 Freshman of the Year
What’s most remarkable is not just the numbers, but how he achieves them:
- Attack downhill without hesitation
- He hits hard and finishes plays
- Excellent read against the race
- Actual blitzer ability
His 89.2 in run defense (PFF) confirms what is seen on tape: he is a ball hunter.
Clear Weaknesses
Not everything is perfect, and that’s the key to the pick.
Trotter needs development in:
- Coverage in the area
- Reading in passing situations
- Turnover production
Right now he’s a box linebacker. Very good at that. But limited outside of that role.
The good news: she’s 21. The potential for growth is enormous.
Why Trotter And Not Jacob Rodriguez?
The Bucs’ plan was clear. After Miami selected Jacob Rodriguez with the 43rd pick, Tampa reacted quickly. Trotter was their next target, and they didn’t hesitate.
In fact:
- Formal meeting at the Combine
- Official Top-30 visit to Tampa
This wasn’t improvised. It was a real target for the front office.
Fits Into The System
Josiah Trotter Bucs projects as:
- MIKE, starting linebacker in the medium term
- Immediate specialist in career downs
- Secondary weapon as an interior pass rusher
His style fits with a defense that seeks:
- Aggressiveness
- Speed in the first step
- Impact on the line of scrimmage
He’s not a replacement for Lavonte. He’s a different type of player. More physical, more direct.
Historical Context: Pressure And Opportunity
The Buccaneers have a very serious tradition in that position:
- Derrick Brooks
- Hardy Nickerson
- Lavonte David
The franchise knows how to identify linebackers. And when they invest in them, they usually get it right.
Trotter doesn’t have to be the next Brooks. Or the next David. But he does have the opportunity to be the next big name.
Last Shot
Josiah Trotter’s Bucs pick is:
- Logical
- Necessary
- High Upside
He’s not the most complete player today. But he could be one of the most impactful tomorrow.
If they develop coverage and improve their pass read, Tampa may have found their new defensive anchor.
And that, in a defense that wants to regain control, changes everything.
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This article was translated from it’s original form in Spanish to English via META AI.
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