Alex Anzalone: Josiah Trotter Has The Talent
June 14th, 2026
Rookie learning.
With the final practice of OTAs wrapped up last week, Bucs linebacker Alex Anzalone had some encouraging words about a rookie teammate.
The Bucs selected Josiah Trotter in the second round. He’s tentatively slated to be on the second level of the defense along with Anzalone.
The former Florida Gators star linebacker, Anazalone was asked about Trotter. Seems Anzalone really admires Trotter’s talents. But like all rookies, Trotter is an unfinished product, he said.
“He’s a great player, obviously, has the pedigree,” Anzalone said. “I remember watching [Trotter’s dad, Eagles linebacker Jeremiah Trotter]. I grew up an Eagles fan, so I watched his dad growing up.”
In Anzalone’s eyes, Trotter’s first training camp this summer will go a long way to determine if he’s ready to start on an NFL defense or needs some additional seasoning.
“You know he has some learning to do, and some growth to do,” Anzalone said. “[Practice] is really good for him.
“I know he’s getting some team reps now, and you know, training camp will be really big for him and his development. So, as soon as he can pick up the playbook, just see the different concepts and routes and things you need to do as a linebacker, he’ll be even better and ready when the season comes.”
Joe hopes Trotter’s aggressive nature and physical tackling rubs off on the rest of the Bucs defense. Last year’s defense was just soft. And that’s a big reason why the Bucs dropped seven of their final nine games and missed the playoffs.
Hopefully, Trotter’s juice and energy will be a signature feature of this new Bucs defense.