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Jacob Rodriguez Tipped as No.2 Linebacker Pick

4/23/2026

Summary

Rodriguez Second Pick

Jacob Rodriguez emerges as the likely second off-ball linebacker selected in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Jeremy Fowler (ESPN) said scouts rank Rodriguez second behind Sonny Styles (Ohio State linebacker), projected in the top 10.
Rodriguez recorded 128 tackles, 11 for loss, seven forced fumbles and four interceptions and placed fifth in Heisman voting despite concerns.
Carolina and Buffalo conducted extensive homework on Rodriguez before Thursday night’s first round.

Summary

Washington drafts Styles

Washington is projected to select linebacker Sonny Styles at No. 7 after the Giants pass.
The Giants obtained No. 5 by trading DT Dexter Lawrence to Cincinnati for the 10th slot.
Tampa Bay, holding No. 15, is weighing O-line, WR and TE Kenyon Sadiq while eyeing a trade-up for Styles.
Analysts cite undervaluation of inside linebackers, pointing to Detroit’s 2023 picks of RB Jahmyr Gibbs (No. 12) and LB Jack Campbell (No. 18) as overcorrections.

History

Historical Context

The NFL Draft has evolved significantly since its inception in 1936, with teams now prioritizing player valuation strategies. In 2023, the Detroit Lions selected Jahmyr Gibbs at No. 12 and Jack Campbell at No. 18, reflecting a trend of undervaluing inside linebackers. This shift may reshape future drafts, as teams reassess how they evaluate and prioritize linebacker talent.

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Rodriguez Second Pick

Jacob Rodriguez emerges as the likely second off-ball linebacker selected in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Jeremy Fowler (ESPN) said scouts rank Rodriguez second behind Sonny Styles (Ohio State linebacker), projected in the top 10.
Rodriguez recorded 128 tackles, 11 for loss, seven forced fumbles and four interceptions and placed fifth in Heisman voting despite concerns.
Carolina and Buffalo conducted extensive homework on Rodriguez before Thursday night’s first round.

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