What happened: The Miami Dolphins selected LB Jacob Rodriguez from Texas Tech with the 43rd overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, per Adam Schefter. The Dolphins called him the Big-12 Defensive Player of the Year. Schefter dubbed him 'every defensive coordinator's favorite player.'

Why it matters: The pick, following Dolphins' trade with 49ers, bolsters Miami's linebacker depth for the 2026 season. Rodriguez adds a proven college performer to the defense. Signals focus on defensive reinforcements amid draft strategy.

What to watch: Monitor Dolphins' next picks and Rodriguez's pro transition.