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.