Jacob Rodriguez: Cowboys' Draft Target

0:00On March 25, the Dallas Cowboys defense desperately needs more speed at linebacker after relying on veterans like Eric Kendrick's and Kenneth Murray, Jr. Younger players have not stepped up yet and free agency only provided short-term fixes. Now the front office is eyeing the draft, with Texas Tech standout Jacob Rodriguez emerging as a prime target. At 6 foot 1 and 231 pounds, he clocked a 4.57 in the 40-yard dash. Rodriguez took an unusual path to linebacker. He started at the University of Virginia as a quarterback, tied end, and even a wildcat runner before switching sides at the ball. After transferring to Texas Tech, he became a tackling force over the last two seasons. His biggest highlight came from forcing seven fumbles in one year, tying an NCAA record. Fans and analysts love his relentless energy and quick lateral moves that let him explode through gaps and chase plays downfield. His quarterback background gives him sharp instincts to read offenses early, and off the field, he's seen as a positive leader who boosts team morale.

1:06That said, his smaller frame can get him blocked by bigger linemen, and his aggressive style sometimes leads to mistakes like falling for playfics, or coverage lapses. Still, he matches defensive coordinator Christian Parker's vision for versatile, chaotic players in Dallas's fast scheme. Rodriguez projects as a day to pick, likely in the second or early third round, so the Cowboys might need to trade up since their next selection. After 20 is weighed down in 92, he could become an instant starter and inject a spark this unit craze for years ahead.