The Miami Dolphins have added their third rookie in the 2026 NFL Draft as the team made a selection with the 43rd overall pick. The team added Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez with the selection, giving them a new prospect for the middle of the defense.
He joins tackle Kadyn Proctor and cornerback Chris Johnson who were selected in Thursday night’s first round. The Dolphins have kicked off their franchise rebuild and new general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan and new head coach Jeff Hafley are well into putting their stamp on the team.
During his career, which included a year at Virginia, Rodriguez recorded 173 tackles, six sacks, 12 passes defensed, six interceptions, 13 forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries. He is a highlight machine, working on punching the ball loose as he makes tackles. He was a quarterback in high school before converting to linebacker when he transferred to Texas Tech after his freshman year at Virginia.
Miami Dolphins 2026 NFL Draft Picks
12th overall (from Cowboys) – Kadyn Proctor, T, Alabama
27th overall (from 49ers) – Chris Johnson, CB, San Diego State
43rd overall – Jacob Rodriguez, LB, Texas Tech
75th overall
87th overall (from Eagles)
94th overall (from Broncos)
130th overall
138th overall (from 49ers)
151st overall
177th overall (from Cowboys)
180th overall (from Cowboys)
227th overall
238th overall (from Chargers via Titans via Jets)