The Miami Dolphins didn't expect to have a shot at Jacob Rodriguez

TL;DR

The Miami Dolphins rookie linebacker Jacob Rodriguez is noted for his exceptional tackling ability and instinctiveness. Coach Al Washington highlights his efficiency in making tackles, especially in open field situations.

Key points

Jacob Rodriguez is a rookie linebacker for the Miami Dolphins.
He was selected in the second round of the NFL Draft.
Rodriguez is known for rarely missing tackles.
Coach Al Washington highlights his tackling efficiency.
He played college football at Texas Tech.

Jacob RodriguezMiami Dolphins

MIAMI GARDENS ― The thing that stands out about Miami Dolphins rookie linebacker Jacob Rodriguez to his new position coach is this: he very rarely misses tackles.

"He's incredibly instinctive," first-year Dolphins linebacker coach Al Washington said. "I think he's really efficient and he's a really good tackler. When you think of tackling, there's two types. There's the knock them back, maybe like in the mid-90s. And Jacob has that, but I think the thing that I saw was in open field, there's a high percentage of tackles being made as opposed to missed tackles.

"And to be honest, this was good for me, coming from college to the NFL, you watch nothing but college tape. And the separator was just that, a lot of guys struggle in the open field. And you think about the athletes at this level, I haven't seen a bad one. I'm watching tape, the second string running back is like... so everybody's athletic. So being able to do that, being able to get yourself in a good base, being able to strike the appropriate way in open field is special."

The Dolphins used a second-round pick on Rodriguez, the tackling machine from Texas Tech whose reputation off the field is as strong as on it.

"It's been a week, I think a week now, but he's been incredibly impressive in terms of his approach," Washington said.

Washington has coached most recently at Notre Dame, Ohio State and Michigan.

He knows what it's supposed to look like.

Jacob Rodriguez stands with Joey and Debbie McGuire during Texas Tech's senior day ceremony before a Big 12 Conference football game, Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025, at Jones AT&T Stadium.

Q&A

What makes Jacob Rodriguez a standout linebacker for the Miami Dolphins?

Jacob Rodriguez is recognized for rarely missing tackles and his instinctive play, making him a valuable addition to the Dolphins' defense.

How did the Miami Dolphins acquire Jacob Rodriguez?

The Miami Dolphins selected Jacob Rodriguez with a second-round pick in the NFL Draft.

What did Dolphins coach Al Washington say about Jacob Rodriguez's tackling skills?

Coach Al Washington praised Rodriguez for his high percentage of successful tackles in open field situations, emphasizing his efficiency and tackling technique.

What is Jacob Rodriguez's background before joining the Miami Dolphins?

Jacob Rodriguez played college football at Texas Tech, where he built a reputation as a strong tackler both on and off the field.