Jacob Rodriguez — 2026 NFL Mock Draft Roundup 1.0

Chicago's defensive overhaul this offseason included the release of Tremaine Edmunds and an overall focus on getting faster. Rodriguez would help with the latter in Edmunds' place. Making him an even better fit is that he's the best ball disrupter in the class; he forced an astonishing seven fumbles and had four interceptions in 2025. The Bears led the NFL in takeaways last season (33).

They can use some linebacker help, and this kid can do it all. He is good against the run and the pass.

The Broncos are in familiar territory after trading their first-round pick to acquire Waddle. Denver did not make its first selections in the 2022 and 2023 drafts until the 60s after surrendering a combined three first-round picks to acquire QB Russell Wilson and coach Sean Payton. 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