Josiah Trotter NFL Draft Scouting Report

Missouri's Josiah Trotter is one of the top linebacker prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft, with a complete skill set that should make him a three-down playmaker at the next level. His ability to top the run, make plays in coverage, and get after the quarterback in blitz packages should make Trotter a Day 2 pick, even in a strong class at his position.

Here's everything NFL fans need to know about Trotter heading into this year's draft:

Josiah Trotter's Vitals

Height: 6-2

Weight: 237

Age: 20

Josiah Trotter's Strengths

Trotter’s speed and physicality are obvious as soon as you turn on the tape, and his mental processing and playmaking instincts make him look even faster. He makes quick reads and triggers downhill immediately, and he brings a ton of pop in his hands and upper body when he takes on blocks, often knocking offensive lineman back on first contact despite their size advantage. When asked to spy mobile quarterbacks, Trotter has a great feel for when to click and close at the opportune moment, taking the right angles to the passer at warp speed to force throwaways or tackles for loss. He shows impressive contact balance to dip under block attempts and still stay on his feet, a trait that also pops up when he’s rushing the passer in blitz packages, allowing him to beat running backs in protection on his way to the passer.

Josiah Trotter's Weaknesses

The biggest drawbacks for Trotter show up in coverage, where he’s simply not as comfortable drifting and settling in zone coverage, or flipping his hips to run with backs and tight ends in man coverage. Shifty running backs can stress him on angle and choice routes underneath or wheel routes down the field, and tight ends can do the same when they force him to turn and run up the seams. He’s still learning how to quickly recognize route concepts and get to his landmarks before the receiver has a chance to catch the ball and get upfield.

Final Analysis

It’s not easy to find linebackers who bring size, speed, power and smarts all at once, especially when you’re just a redshirt sophomore. Trotter still has a ton of room to grow, but that should be viewed as a positive when looking at everything he does so well already. With some improvement in coverage, there’s no reason why Trotter can’t develop into a high-quality starter who can stay on the field on all three downs.

2026 NFL Draft Projection: Day 2 (2nd/3rd Round)