This linebacker delivers immediate defensive impact and turnover-forcing plays, potentially transforming the Colts' unit from day one.
Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez may not be one of the players that is selected on Day 1 of the 2026 NFL Draft, but he could change a team's defense from the first day that he steps on the field if they decide to take a chance on him.
In a recent article by Bleacher Report's Brent Sobleski, he outlines what he believes is the best team fit for some of the most "underrated" players in this year's class. For Rodriguez, he thinks he could be a fit for the Indianapolis Colts, who were contending for a lot of this past season.
"Texas Tech's Jacob Rodriguez is a plug-and-play starter, with the aptitude to wear the great dot as an NFL team's defensive play-caller from Day 1," Sobleski writes. "At 6'1" and 231 pounds... Rodriguez doesn't necessarily fill the Colts' preferred physical requirements. Chris Ballard and Co. tend to like longer and lankier linebackers. However, the team's need coupled with Rodriguez's outstanding play should override any potential preferences."
The Butkus Award winner filled up the stat sheet during his time in Lubbock, showcasing a rare ability to create turnovers while consistently making plays all over the field.
He led the Big 12 in solo tackles with 63, and he racked up 128 in total. Rodriguez also showcased his ability to make a play on the ball by snagging four interceptions and forcing a very impressive seven fumbles.
That playmaking ability is exactly why the Colts make so much sense as a potential destination. Indianapolis has been searching for more consistency and impact at linebacker, particularly when it comes to defending in space and creating takeaways.
The Red Raider star checks both of those boxes.
Before their bye week in Week 11, the Colts were a surprise contender with an 8-2 record. But a cold streak combined with an Achilles tear to Daniel Jones derailed their season and caused them to lose out after their bye.
Indianapolis will be going into 2026 looking to bounce right back to where they were, and taking a player like the Texas Tech defensive star could put them into position to do just that.
And for Rodriguez, the opportunity to land in the right system could make all the difference. If the fit in Indianapolis ever becomes reality, it would give him a chance to do what he’s always done: make plays, lead a defense, and prove that being "underrated" doesn’t last for long.