Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez to return for final season

On the same day that it was announced that he had earned first-team All-Big 12 honors, Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez announced on Thursday that he will be returning to Lubbock for his final season of eligibility in 2025. This is a huge development after the Red Raiders' leading tackler went through the Senior Day ceremony prior to the team's regular-season finale last week against West Virginia.

This season, the junior from Wichita Falls had a breakout campaign with 118 tackles (10 for loss) and 5.0 sacks. Additionally, he forced three fumbles, recovered two, and he had an interception.

Thus, some thought that he might take his talents to the NFL. However, in a social media post, he announced that he will be using his final year of college eligibility with the Red Raiders.

"I want to see this program take the next step. Most of all, I love this university and the experience I've had here," his statement said. "I want to continue to be a part of Red Raider Nation. Therefore, I've decided to come back for my final year of eligibility. Wreck 'Em!"

It has been a rather unusual journey to stardom for Rodriguez. As a high school player, he was recruited to Virginia to play quarterback. And as a true freshman, he played multiple positions on the offense including being used as a blocking tight end.

After that season (2021), he transferred to Texas Tech where he moved to linebacker. As a backup in 2022, he made 29 tackles in 12 games.

Last season, he was limited to only five games (four in the regular season) as he missed most of the season with a foot/ankle injury. However, that did allow him to use 2023 as a redshirt season.

Now, Rodriguez is one of the best defenders in the nation. In fact, he had seven games with double-digit tackles this season.

That included 17 against Colorado and 13 against Abilene Christian, Arizona, and Iowa State. And it should come as no surprise that in those seven double-digit tackle games, Tech went 5-2.

Of course, the Red Raider defense is going to be overhauled this offseason with new defensive coordinator Shiel Wood now in place. Tech finished the regular season ranked 123rd in the nation in total defense giving up 451.9 yards per game.

Therefore, the thought of losing the team's best defender before his eligibility is exhausted was terrifying to Texas Tech football fans. However, those fears have now been assuaged as Rodriguez has given folks around Raiderland the best early Christmas gift he could have by announcing that he will be back for one last ride.