As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the Green Bay Packers are eyeing several key positions, but don't overlook the potential for an off-ball linebacker like Jacob Rodriguez to be a Day 2 target. With General Manager Brian Gutekunst hinting at off-season needs during the NFL Scouting Combine, especially with Quay Walker likely leaving in free agency, the Packers have some decisions to make.
While nose tackle and cornerback are hot topics, the linebacker position is also crucial. The Packers might be scouting big-bodied replacements like Jake Golday from Cincinnati or Utah’s Lander Barton, both standing tall at 6’4”. However, if they’re looking for a playmaker earlier in the draft, Rodriguez from Texas Tech is a name to watch.
Rodriguez’s journey to becoming a Heisman Trophy finalist is nothing short of remarkable. Starting as a quarterback at Virginia, he transitioned to linebacker at Texas Tech, where he walked on and blossomed into a defensive star. His 2025 season stats are impressive: 128 tackles, seven forced fumbles, four interceptions, and three touchdowns.
Though a bit undersized at 6’1” and 231 pounds, Rodriguez compensates with sharp instincts and surprising strength, making him a tackling machine. His ability to read plays and engage blockers sets him apart, and his coverage skills are bolstered by his knack for anticipating passes in zone defense.
Entering the Combine, there were questions about Rodriguez’s athleticism, but he silenced doubters with a standout performance. His 9.23 Relative Athletic Score (RAS) was boosted by a 4.57-second 40-yard dash and a 38.5-inch vertical jump. His agility scores were even more impressive, with a top-tier three-cone time of 6.90 seconds and a 4.19-second short shuttle.
Rodriguez's determination was on full display during the three-cone drill. Despite slippery conditions causing multiple attempts, he persevered, showcasing his competitive toughness-a trait that sets him apart in today's game where many opt out of such tests.
The big question is whether Rodriguez will be available when the Packers pick at 52nd overall. Currently ranked 60th on the consensus board, his size might deter some teams, but others could be drawn to his grit and football IQ, potentially snapping him up earlier.
With months to go in the pre-draft process, Rodriguez remains a compelling option for the Packers, offering the potential to secure a starting-caliber linebacker who could make a significant impact from day one.