Patriots select award-winning linebacker in latest 2026 NFL mock draft

Is Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez a compatible prospect for the New England Patriots in the 2026 NFL Draft? According to PFF’s Jordan Plocher, the Patriots select Rodriguez with the No. 31 overall pick on draft day.

”Rodriguez is a smart, versatile and technically sound player who could earn the trust of Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel and get on the field quickly in the NFL,” Plocher said. “He put together an incredible 2025 season for a college linebacker, winning the Butkus Award (given to the nation's most impactful linebacker) and earning the top PFF overall grade among linebackers (93. 0).

” Rodriguez led the nation in forced fumbles in 2025 with seven. He recorded four interceptions, 11 tackles for loss, as well as one sack on the year. Rodriguez impressed at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, running the 40-yard dash in 4.

57 seconds. With Christian Elliss on an expiring deal in 2026, compounded with concerns over Harold Landry’s age, as well as his injury history, the Patriots will have the chance to add a young linebacker to their unit that also includes Robert Spillane, not only for next season, but for the foreseeable future. Rodriguez disrupts in the passing game, making him a strong option in the second line of defense.