Josiah Trotter Named Top Rookie Linebacker
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers rookie secured the second-highest grade from Pro Football Focus following Week 2.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Football
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Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Josiah Trotter has earned the second-highest Pro Football Focus grade among rookie linebackers after two weeks of play. The 46th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft posted a 77.1 grade during the team's Week 2 performance against the Cleveland Browns.
Why it matters
Trotter has become an immediate impact player for Tampa Bay, demonstrating high-level defensive production and versatility early in his professional career. His ability to contribute significantly across multiple statistical categories has solidified his early standing among the top defensive rookies in the league.
Pro Football Focus assigned Josiah Trotter a 77.1 grade for his Week 2 performance. Through two games, the linebacker has recorded six tackles resulting in a defensive stop, though he has also missed 15.0% of his tackle attempts.
The players
Josiah Trotter
He is a rookie linebacker for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers who was the 46th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
This professional football team is based in Tampa and competes in the National Football League.
The details
Trotter enjoyed a breakout debut in Week 1, tallying 11 tackles, two tackles for loss, one sack, one pass defended, and a pick-six. Despite the missed tackle percentage, his presence has been a critical component of the Buccaneers defensive schemes during the opening weeks of the season.
Timeline
Josiah Trotter was selected in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Week 1 saw Trotter record 11 tackles and one sack.
Trotter earned a 77.1 PFF grade during Week 2 action on Sunday.
The Buccaneers are scheduled to play the Minnesota Vikings this Sunday.
Season Trajectory
Trotter's strong start suggests he could be a cornerstone of the Tampa Bay defense for the remainder of the season. His rapid development impacts the team's defensive rotation and overall competitive standing within their division.
Trotter has recorded six defensive stops in two weeks, signaling reliable value for fantasy rosters that count tackle production. His high activity level, combined with his Week 1 sack and interception, positions him as a versatile playmaker for upcoming matchups.
The takeaway
The rookie linebacker has quickly transitioned into a high-impact starter for the Tampa Bay defense. Fans should monitor his tackle efficiency in upcoming games as he continues to adapt to the speed of professional play.
Further reading
For more updates on the team, visit Tampa Football.
Live Poll
Should local fans have high expectations for a rookie player's first season?
