Texas Tech’s Jacob Rodriguez Collects Bednarik Award, Capping Historic Defensive Season…see more…

Texas Tech’s Jacob Rodriguez Collects Bednarik Award, Capping Historic Defensive Season…see more…
Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez etched his name into college football history after being awarded the Bednarik Award, presented annually to the nation’s top defensive player. The honor capped a remarkable season in which Rodriguez emerged as the unquestioned leader of the Red Raiders’ defense and one of the most dominant defenders in the country.
Rodriguez’s journey to national recognition has been anything but conventional. Originally recruited at a different position, he reinvented himself through persistence, discipline, and football intelligence. That transformation was fully realized this season, as he consistently dictated games with his instincts, tackling ability, and command of the defense. Opposing offenses often built their game plans around avoiding him — a testament to his impact on every snap.
Throughout the season, Rodriguez led Texas Tech in tackles while also contributing key plays behind the line of scrimmage, in coverage, and on third downs. Beyond the statistics, his presence elevated those around him. Coaches and teammates repeatedly pointed to his preparation, communication, and leadership as the backbone of the Red Raiders’ defensive identity.
The Bednarik Award places Rodriguez among an elite group of defenders in college football history and represents a milestone moment for Texas Tech’s program. It also reflects the program’s growing national profile and commitment to developing elite talent on the defensive side of the ball.
As Rodriguez looks ahead to the next chapter of his football career, this season will be remembered as a defining one — not only for the awards collected, but for the standard he set. His historic campaign has left a lasting legacy in Lubbock and firmly established Jacob Rodriguez as one of the premier defenders of his era.