Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez has achieved a significant milestone in his football career. He was recently announced as the recipient of the Butkus Award, recognizing him as the best linebacker in college football.
Jacob Rodriguez’s Butkus Award Achievement
On December 5, Rodriguez, a fifth-year senior hailing from Wichita Falls, Texas, became the first Texas Tech player to win the prestigious Butkus Award. This honor has been awarded annually since its inception in 1985.
The announcement of Rodriguez’s win came just a day after he was named the Defensive Player of the Year in the Big 12 Conference, as voted by the league’s head coaches.
A Notable Presentation
The award presentation featured Matt Butkus, son of Hall of Fame linebacker Dick Butkus, who presented the trophy in a surprise announcement directed at the Texas Tech team. Former Dallas Cowboys linebacker DeMarcus Ware, who twice won the Butkus Award for NFL linebackers, also participated in the ceremony.
Season Highlights and Recognition
This season, Rodriguez has recorded impressive statistics, including:
- 104 total tackles
- 10 tackles for loss
- 1 sack
- 7 forced fumbles, leading the FBS
- 4 interceptions
- 2 fumble recoveries
- 6 pass breakups
His remarkable ability to generate turnovers has drawn significant attention, and he is being considered as a candidate for the Heisman Trophy.
Versatile Contributions
Coach Joey McGuire has highlighted Rodriguez’s versatility. In recent games, Rodriguez has even taken on the role of a wildcat quarterback, scoring touchdowns against Central Florida and West Virginia.
A Bright Future
Rodriguez is not only a Butkus Award winner but also a finalist for several other prestigious awards, including:
- Lombardi Award
- Bronko Nagurski Trophy
- Lott IMPACT Trophy
- Bednarik Award
- Walter Camp National Player of the Year
Texas Tech’s coach McGuire expressed pride in Rodriguez’s accomplishments, stating, “Jacob’s performance this season has placed him in a select category among the top players in college football.” He emphasized the excitement surrounding the recognition and the upcoming Butkus Award banquet in January.
