The pads finally came on for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and it didn’t take long for rookie linebacker Josiah Trotter Jr. to remind everyone why the organization was so high on him during the draft process.
Trotter wasted no time making his presence felt in the first padded practice of training camp, recording back-to-back tackles for loss that showcased exactly what he brings to Todd Bowles’ defense. It was an attention-grabbing performance from the second-round pick, who displayed the combination of speed, power, and instincts that made him one of the top linebackers in the 2026 draft class.
On both plays, Trotter diagnosed the run almost immediately, shot through traffic, and met the ball carrier in the backfield before the play had a chance to develop. His closing burst stood out, but so did the physicality with which he finished each tackle, as on the first play, he knocked offensive lineman Justin Skule rocking him backward.
His performance also reinforced why many believe he has a chance to contribute immediately this season. Tampa Bay has been searching for a long-term answer at inside linebacker besides Lavonte David, but failed to do so before he retired during the offseason. Trotter possesses the downhill mentality that has long been a staple of Bowles’ defenses. He plays with an attacking style, trusts what he sees, and isn’t afraid to deliver a big hit when he gets to the football.
It’s only one padded practice, but first impressions matter, especially for rookies trying to earn significant roles. Through his first true test of training camp, Trotter looked every bit the part of an NFL linebacker and like the future of a Buccaneers defensive leader.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Josiah Trotter Jr. makes statement in Bucs’ first padded practice
Reporting by Ashlie Abrahams, Buccaneers Wire / Bucs Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Ashlie Abrahams, Buccaneers Wire | USA TODAY Network
