Josiah Trotter Jr. was always expected to have a chance to become a major piece of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' defense. What wasn't expected was how quickly the second-round pick would put himself in a position to start from the beginning of his rookie season.
Trotter lined up next to veteran Alex Anzalone during Tampa Bay's joint practices with the Jacksonville Jaguars, another significant development for a rookie who has steadily climbed the depth chart throughout training camp. The Buccaneers entered camp with competition at inside linebacker, but Trotter has continued to make a strong impression since the pads came on. The Buccaneers drafted Trotter 46th overall because they believed his physicality, instincts and ability to make plays near
the line of scrimmage could eventually translate into a starting-caliber linebacker. He has already shown those traits during camp, while also demonstrating that he can contribute in coverage.
Now, he's getting an opportunity to work alongside Anzalone, the veteran Tampa Bay signed to provide stability following Lavonte David's retirement and that pairing could be a preview of what the Buccaneers ultimately decide to use when Week 1 arrives. Anzalone provides the experience and communication that can be particularly valuable for a young linebacker, while Trotter brings the aggressive, downhill style that Tampa Bay hoped to add to its defense. Anzalone has also already spoken highly of Trotter's talent. If he continues performing well against Jacksonville and throughout the final stages of training camp, it will become increasingly difficult for the Buccaneers to keep him off the field.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Josiah Trotter’s rapid rise could lead to week 1 starting role
