Josiah Trotter
Career Summary
Josiah Trotter is a Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker who played at West Virginia and Missouri.
The Buccaneers selected him 46th overall in the 2026 NFL Draft.
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Early Life
Trotter grew up in a football family.
His father Jeremiah Trotter Sr. was an NFL linebacker, and his older brother Jeremiah Jr. also entered the league. Tampa Bay coaches credit his upbringing with helping develop his recognition of plays.
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High School
Trotter attended Saint Joseph's Preparatory School in Philadelphia.
He helped the program win two Class 6A state championships and earned two all-state selections. He was a four-star recruit.
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College Career
Trotter made an immediate impact at West Virginia before transferring to Missouri.
He registered 92 tackles in 2024 and led Missouri with 84 in 2025. His final college season also included 13 tackles for loss and two sacks.
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Path to the NFL
Tampa Bay drafted Trotter in the second round in 2026.
He entered a remodeled off-ball linebacker group and competed for the middle-linebacker role.
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NFL Career
Trotter signed a four-year rookie deal in May 2026.
In his debut against Cincinnati, he recorded 11 combined tackles, a sack and an interception returned 38 yards for a touchdown.
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Career Accomplishments
Trotter earned major freshman and conference recognition.
He was the Big 12 Defensive Freshman of the Year and a FWAA Freshman All-American in 2024. Missouri's 2025 season brought first-team All-SEC honors from the coaches.
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Playing Style
Trotter is a physical middle linebacker with strong play recognition.
Larry Foote praised his ability to strike blockers, shed them and reach the ball. Mike Caldwell highlighted his instincts and commitment to studying football.
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32462, 00-0041502, 4/15/2005, Josiah Trotter, Josiah, Trotter
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