Home / Sports / Kuechly's Top LB: Bengals Eye Rodriguez?
Kuechly's Top LB: Bengals Eye Rodriguez?
10 Apr
Summary
- Hall of Famer Luke Kuechly names Jacob Rodriguez his top linebacker.
- Rodriguez boasts 128 tackles and seven forced fumbles last season.
- Bengals have a major need at linebacker in the 2026 NFL Draft.
The Bengals face a critical need at the linebacker position heading into the 2026 NFL Draft, with the event just 13 days away. Linebacker is a strong possibility for the team's No. 10 overall pick, especially with Ohio State's Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles being high on their radar.
However, Pro Football Hall of Famer Luke Kuechly has put forth his top linebacker choice: former Texas Tech standout Jacob Rodriguez. Kuechly praised Rodriguez's processing speed, tackling ability, and ball production, noting 11 tackles for loss and four interceptions last season.
Rodriguez's statistics also include 128 tackles and seven forced fumbles. Analysts like Dane Brugler rank him highly, suggesting he could compete for a starting role immediately in the NFL despite having an average size profile.
Given the Bengals hold the 41st overall pick, Rodriguez could be a prime target if he remains available after the top selections. His impact would be particularly significant given the team's pressing need for a dynamic playmaker at linebacker.
