The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will need another productive performance from rookie linebacker Josiah Trotter when they host the Pittsburgh Steelers. The second-round pick has quickly become an important part of Tampa Bay’s defensive front.

Trotter has recorded 40 combined tackles, one sack, and one interception through his first four appearances. He also returned that interception for a touchdown against Cincinnati in his NFL debut. However, a knee injury has left his availability for Sunday’s matchup uncertain.

• Total Tackles: 7-10
• Solo Tackles: 4-6
• Tackles for Loss: 0-1
• Sacks: 0-0.5
• Quarterback Hits: 0-1
• QB Pressures: 0-1
• Passes Defended: 0-1
• Interceptions: 0
• Forced Fumbles: 0

Trotter’s tackling production has been one of the biggest positives from Tampa Bay’s rookie class. He has recorded at least seven combined tackles in each of his four appearances. His ability to diagnose plays and finish tackles gives the Buccaneers a dependable presence against the run.

Pittsburgh’s offensive approach could create plenty of opportunities for Trotter near the line of scrimmage. The Steelers can use their running game to test Tampa Bay’s linebackers and create openings for play-action passes. Trotter’s ability to recognize those plays will be important throughout the matchup.

Trotter has also demonstrated potential as a pass rusher, recording one sack and three quarterback pressures this season. His primary responsibility remains defending the run and covering passing lanes, but occasional blitzes could create additional opportunities. Pittsburgh’s protection may limit his chances to reach the quarterback consistently.

His knee injury remains the biggest variable entering Sunday’s game. Trotter was listed as questionable after limited participation in Friday’s practice. If active, his expected workload and effectiveness could depend on how well he moves during the game.

• Total Tackles: 8
• Solo Tackles: 5
• Tackles for Loss: 1
• Sacks: 0
• Quarterback Hits: 0
• QB Pressures: 1
• Passes Defended: 0
• Interceptions: 0
• Forced Fumbles: 0

Trotter has established himself as a productive young linebacker through the opening weeks of his NFL career. His tackling ability should give Tampa Bay a solid foundation against Pittsburgh’s offensive attack if he’s healthy enough to play.

Expect the rookie to remain active around the football and contribute against the run. His pressure opportunities may be limited, but another strong tackling performance would help Tampa Bay’s defense.

Prediction: 8 tackles, 1 tackle for loss, and 1 quarterback pressure.

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