Overview
- Miami used the 43rd pick in Friday's second round to take Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez in the first draft run by GM Jon-Eric Sullivan.
- Sullivan said Rodriguez has standout instincts and leadership and projected him as a 'green-dot' defender who will call plays alongside Jordyn Brooks and Tyrel Dodson in time.
- Analysts expect Rodriguez to see snaps in 2026 and push for a starting job by 2027, giving a rebuilding defense a long-term answer in the middle.
- Rodriguez dominated 2025 at Texas Tech with Pro Football Focus grades of 93.3 overall, 92.7 in coverage and 95.3 against the run, plus major awards like the Butkus, Nagurski, Bednarik and Lombardi.
- Scouting reports noted work to do as a blitzer and tackler, citing a 62.2 pass-rush grade, 17 missed tackles and occasional over-pursuit, while a Jets reporter said New York planned to take him at No. 44 before trading back after Miami's pick.