Jacob Rodriguez: A Linebacker on the Rise
If you followed college football this past season, Jacob Rodriguez is a name you couldn't miss. As the heartbeat of the Red Raiders' defense, Rodriguez led Texas Tech to a Big 12 title and a spot in the College Football Playoffs. Despite his standout performances, Rodriguez continues to prove he's ready to make an impact at the next level in the NFL.
The Basics
- Position: Linebacker
- Class: Senior
- Size: 6'1", 233 pounds
- Age: 23
- Draft Projection: Mid 2nd round to early 3rd round
Scouting Report
Jacob Rodriguez, the Texas Tech linebacker, was a force to be reckoned with last season, earning the prestigious Butkus Award and finishing fifth in Heisman voting-an impressive feat for a defender. His journey to the NFL Draft began as a quarterback in high school, which may explain his uncanny instincts on the field. After a year at the University of Virginia, Rodriguez transferred to Lubbock and never looked back.
His quarterback background gives him a unique perspective, allowing him to anticipate plays and create turnovers with ease. Rodriguez's instincts and reliability in the run game make him a standout, projected as an early-to-mid-third-round pick. However, his performance at the Senior Bowl suggests he could be taken much earlier.
While Rodriguez may not have the physical prowess of top prospects like Ohio State’s Sonny Styles, his skills and football IQ make him a potential long-term starter in the NFL. His ability in one-on-one coverage was on full display at the Senior Bowl, particularly during the backs-on-backers drill.
Rodriguez is a turnover magnet, with four interceptions and seven forced fumbles this season. While turnovers aren't the sole measure of a defender's impact, they highlight his knack for being around the ball and making game-changing plays.
Strengths
- Coverage Skills: Exceptional in covering running backs and tight ends.
- Ball Skills: Known for forcing turnovers, impacting games significantly.
- Run Defense: Excellent at identifying and stopping run plays.
- Game Instincts: His quarterback experience enhances his ability to read offenses and create turnovers.
Weaknesses
- Pass Rushing: Limited effectiveness as a pass rusher.
- Size: Undersized compared to elite linebacker prospects, which can be a challenge against larger linemen.
- Speed: Not the fastest in terms of 40-yard dash times compared to top linebackers.
What the Experts Say
- Matt Holder (Bleacher Report): Rodriguez was the top linebacker in college football, a turnover machine with great instincts, though he lacks the size for a top-tier NFL prospect.
- Emmett Matasovsky (Sports Illustrated): Rodriguez impressed at the Senior Bowl with his instincts and lateral movement, despite physical limitations.
- Samuel Teets (Chiefs Wire): His agility and ability to mirror running backs are notable, making him a natural at flowing to the ball.
- Brett Kollman: Rodriguez could be a perfect fit for the Steelers, who need physicality in their linebacking unit. With his instinctiveness and run-stopping ability, he could make an immediate impact.
Rodriguez's path to the NFL is marked by determination and skill. While questions about his size remain, his football IQ and knack for big plays make him a compelling prospect for any team looking to bolster their defense. Keep an eye on him come draft day-he might just be the steal of the draft.