The Miami Dolphins made some serious noise in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft, but it's their second-round steal that has everyone—including the head coach—buzzing.

When the Dolphins snagged Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez with their second-round pick, even head coach Jeff Hafley couldn't hide his surprise. "One guy I didn't think would be there when we took him was probably Rodriguez," Hafley revealed on a recent podcast with future Hall of Fame cornerback Richard Sherman. "I thought he would have been picked sooner. Just his college tape, I think the upside, I think the potential, I think the leadership capability, the playmaking ability, the production. I thought he would have been gone by that pick. So when he was still there, that one, we were all pretty excited about that pick."

And it's easy to see why the Dolphins were thrilled. Rodriguez, 23, started his college career at Virginia before transferring to Texas Tech, where he became a defensive force over four seasons. Across 56 games, he racked up 317 tackles, 13 forced fumbles, 12 passes defensed, six sacks, six interceptions, and five fumble recoveries. His accolades include two All-Big 12 honors and an All-American nod—a resume that screams first-round talent.

While veterans Jordyn Brooks and Tyrel Dodson are expected to anchor Miami's linebacker corps in 2026, don't be surprised to see Rodriguez carving out rotational snaps as a rookie. With his playmaking ability and leadership, he's primed to step into a starting role by his sophomore season. For a team looking to bolster its defensive depth, this pick could be the steal of the draft.

Whether you're a die-hard Dolphins fan or just love a good draft story, Rodriguez is a name to watch as he brings his college production to the pro level.