Grading the selection of LB Josiah Trotter by the Bucs

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. He should have opportunities not just against the run, but also as a blitzer—similar to how Lavonte David has been deployed at times throughout his career in Todd Bowles’ system.

Still, there’s a reason this grade doesn’t climb higher.

Trotter remains a work in progress in coverage, and that’s a significant piece of the modern linebacker role. There are moments where he looks uncomfortable in space, and that’s something opposing offenses will look to exploit early. It’s also worth noting the value conversation here—players like Anthony Hill Jr. and CJ Allen were still on the board, and both were viewed by many as more complete prospects. Trotter himself was often projected closer to the third round, making this feel like a slight reach.

But even with that in mind, the Buccaneers addressed arguably their biggest remaining need with a player who fits exactly what they want to be defensively. He’s bigger. He’s nastier. And if the coverage side develops, this could end up being a much more impactful pick than the initial B- suggests.