Chiefs scouting report: Texas Tech Red Raiders LB Jacob Rodriguez

The Kansas City Chiefs added some linebacker depth when they selected Jeffrey Bassa this past spring, but the team still needs to replace bodies at the position because of free agency. Fortunately, the 2026 NFL draft features many quality depth options and even some projected Day 3 prospects who have the potential to develop into starters.

Texas Tech Red Raiders linebacker Jacob Rodriguez is trying hard to secure a place in New York as a Heisman Trophy finalist. His case as one of the four best players in college football is suspect at best, but Rodriguez certainly possesses the statistical argument to be a consensus All-American. He has produced four interceptions, seven forced fumbles and nine and a half tackles for loss this season.

Rodriguez is high-hipped and undersized for a MIKE linebacker. His athletic testing is average to below-average, but his play speed seems to limit the impact of those shortcomings. Rodriguez displays impressive anticipation in the run game and is quick enough in tight spaces to out-leverage or slip past blockers.

Rodriguez uses springy footwork and lateral agility to exchange gaps and make quick corrections to mirror the running back. He naturally flows to the football, especially on zone run plays. Rodriguez isn’t the most explosive athlete, but he flashes the closing burst to prevent running backs from slipping past the defense’s second level.

Rodriguez is a high motor defender who leads by example. He rallies to the football and makes plays in pursuit. This hustle pairs well with his perfected Peanut Punch. His timing and aim when attempting to knock the ball out are the best among all defenders in the 2026 class.

Rodriguez displays good awareness in coverage and reads the quarterback’s eyes to jump routes. He is quick enough to carry some seam routes but appears uncomfortable operating in man coverage or at depth. His instincts in zone coverage are still developing.

Rodriguez’s size limitations make it a chore for him to stack and shed blocks. Once a lineman reaches him at the second level, he lacks the power to remove their hands and escape. Rodriguez must clean up his tackling form. He slides off or misses far too many tackles.

Texas Tech ends its 2025 regular season campaign at home against West Virginia on Saturday, Nov. 29 at 11:00 a.m. CT. A win secures the Red Raiders a place in the Big 12 Championship Game and the chance to claim their first title with the conference. At 10-1, Texas Tech will be heavily favored over the 4-7 Mountaineers.

This article originally appeared on Chiefs Wire: 2026 NFL draft scouting report: Texas Tech LB Jacob Rodriguez