Broncos Predicted to Nab Playmaking Linebacker in 2nd Round

Texas Tech's Jacob Rodriguez could fill a need and make an immediate impact in Denver.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 5:55pm

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The Denver Broncos no longer have a first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft after trading for star wide receiver Jaylen Waddle, but they are still expected to find an impact player in the second round. According to a recent mock draft, the Broncos are predicted to select Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez, who could compete for a starting job and bolster the team's defense with his ball-hawking abilities.

Why it matters

The Broncos have had success finding Pro Bowl-caliber players in the second round in recent years, and Rodriguez could continue that trend. The team has a need at inside linebacker, and Rodriguez's skills in pass coverage and forcing turnovers could be a valuable addition to a Denver defense looking to create more takeaways.

The details

Rodriguez led the country with seven forced fumbles last season and also had four interceptions, showcasing his playmaking ability. He ran a 4.57-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, demonstrating the athleticism to excel in pass coverage. Rodriguez could push for a starting job over Alex Singleton or Justin Strnad, as the Broncos look to upgrade their linebacker corps.

  • The Broncos will make their first pick of the 2026 NFL Draft at No. 62 overall in the second round.
  • Rodriguez led the nation with seven forced fumbles during the 2025 college football season.

The players

Jacob Rodriguez

A linebacker from Texas Tech University who is projected to be selected by the Denver Broncos in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft.

George Paton

The general manager of the Denver Broncos, who has found success in the second round of the NFL Draft in recent years.

Alex Singleton

A linebacker for the Denver Broncos who is currently a presumed starter.

Justin Strnad

A linebacker for the Denver Broncos who is currently a presumed starter.

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What they’re saying

“The Broncos came away from those drafts with pass rusher Nik Bonitto (2022) and receiver/returner Marvin Mims Jr. (2023), who have since made a combined four Pro Bowls. Only time will tell whether Rodriguez will have that kind of impact in the NFL, but his ball production for the Red Raiders (four interceptions, seven forced fumbles last season) could be appealing for a Denver defense intent on creating more takeaways in 2026.”

— Nick Kosmider, The Athletic writer

What’s next

The Broncos will have to wait until the 62nd overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft to see if Rodriguez is still available, and if he can make an immediate impact on their defense.

The takeaway

The Broncos have found success in the second round of the NFL Draft in recent years, and the selection of Jacob Rodriguez could continue that trend. His ball-hawking abilities and potential to compete for a starting job make him an intriguing prospect for a Denver team looking to bolster its defense and create more turnovers.