Height: 6-1
Weight: 238
Year: Senior
Pro Comparison: Tyler Matakevich

2026 NFL Combine Results

Pros of Jacob Rodriguez

• Instincts. Effortless ability to find the football. High-end key and diagnose, meets the ball carrier at the junction point.
• Production. Insane amount of forced fumbles at 13 in his career and seven in 2025. Backs up guady tackle stats.
• Intangibles. High-character player who was the team captain and a player teammates rally behind.

Cons of Jacob Rodriguez

• Injury history. Had to redshirt in 2023 due to a Lisfranc injury.
• NFL ceiling. Will turn 24 before his rookie season. Questions about how much more he really can build upon.
• Block shedding. Would like to see him use his natural power to create advantageous situations.

Background

A Texas native, Rodriguez went to the University of Virginia out of high school before making his way back home and joining the Red Raiders in 2022. He went from being a quarterback, wide receiver, and utility weapon on offense to being a stacked backer and immediately began to show promise. Capped off an incredibly productive career with a 2025 season that was highlighted by him finishing 5th in Heisman voting.

Player Evaluation

Rodriguez is a fascinating study at the linebacker position. Despite starting his career on offense at Virginia, Rodriguez adapted to the stacked backer position like a chameleon, showing plus instincts, tackling ability, and the ability to force turnovers. There will be some concerns about his ceiling due to age, injuries, and size, but he is one of the most productive and cerebral players in the class.

A to Z Rankings

A to Z Big Board Ranking: 83

A to Z Draft Grade: 7.04

Draft projection: Day 2