Jacob Rodriguez

Draft Projection

Measurements

Athletic Testing

College Statistics

Strengths

• Shows legitimate sideline-to-sideline pursuit with the range to track down outside runs and cover backs in the flat effectively
• Diagnoses run concepts quickly and shoots gaps with conviction, rarely getting caught flat-footed when the ball gets handed off
• Violent hands at the point of attack allow him to stack and shed blockers, keeping his shoulders square to make tackles
• Quarterback background gives him exceptional pre-snap recognition, often calling out formations and putting teammates in proper position before plays
• Creates havoc as a blitzer with natural timing and bend to slip through gaps, generating 22 total pressures last season
• Ball production jumps off the tape with six forced fumbles over two healthy seasons, always punching at the football
• Runs angry through contact and delivers punishment to ball carriers, bringing that old-school thumper mentality between the tackles consistently
• Leadership qualities shine through as a two-year captain who sets the tone for Texas Tech's defense with his energy and passion

Areas to Improve

• Undersized at 235 pounds for traditional mike linebacker role, can get engulfed when offensive guards climb to second level
• Shows inconsistent tackling technique at times, occasionally going for the big hit instead of wrapping up securely through contact
• Coverage skills remain a work in progress, particularly when asked to carry slot receivers vertically down the seam in man coverage
• Modest athletic testing with a 4.70 forty suggests he might struggle matching up with today's athletic tight ends in space
• Tendency to freelance occasionally leads to him overrunning plays or creating cutback lanes when he gets too aggressive downhill