Prior to the 2026 NFL Draft, one of the biggest priorities for the Dallas Cowboys has been to find a quarterback for new DC Christian Parker's defense. Linebacker is one of the biggest needs on this Cowboys' roster, and finding DeMarvion Overshown a running mate is a major necessity in Dallas.
Since it's going to take a miracle to land Sonny Styles, perhaps the next best option comes from in-state sensation Jacob Rodriguez out of Texas Tech. And by the looks of it, Rodriguez seems to be intrigued by the idea of not only remaining in the Lone Star State but also joining Parker's defense.
While addressing the media prior to the 2026 NFL Draft, the 23-year-old spoke glowingly about the Cowboys. He had nothing but good things to say about both his time with Dallas' front office, including his formal interview and Pro Day dinner, but the real smoking gun was his praise of Parker.
"I was fortunate enough to have a visit with them at the combine, a formal interview with them. And I had a great time. I really loved [Christian Parker] and everything that we were talking about in that room. And then, as the process has gone along, they actually got to come out to Lubbock for our Pro Day. So we got to sit down and have dinner with them, and I think the biggest thing is they're just great people.”
The Dallas Cowboys have a tough choice on their hands with Jacob Rodriguez
Rodriguez said he "really loved" Parker and this new Cowboys' defensive coaching staff, but here's the problem. After their pick at No. 20, Jerry Jones and company won't make another pick until pick 92, so unless they're taking him at 20, Dallas will likely have to trade out of Round 1 to have a shot at him.
The Cowboys have been linked to several other top LB prospects, including Georgia's CJ Allen and Texas star Anthony Hill Jr., but J-Rod is the most likely option should they fail to trade up for Styles. Even though he's one of the more divisive prospects in this draft, the talent he has is undeniable.
The Butkus Award winner was arguably the best defender in the nation in 2025, as he finished in fifth place in Heisman Trophy voting after forcing 11 takeaways (seven forced fumbles and four picks) for the Red Raiders. He also finished above 100 total tackles and 10 TFLs for the second straight season.
His playmaking ability and pro-readiness shouldn't come into question, especially because his IQ would instantly make him one of the best players on this defense. However, at 6-foot-1 and shorter than 31-inch arms, there have been questions about how his undersized frame will hold up in the NFL.
Regardless, Rodriguez is a name to watch for the Cowboys. He's a win-now talent who fills a clear need, so if his recent comments (especially in praising Dallas' new DC) are any indication, there's a real shot he's hoping to stay in Texas later this week.
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