Overview
- Rodriguez received the Lombardi Award in Houston, becoming the first Texas Tech player to win the honor presented by the Rotary Club of Houston.
- He topped a finalist field that included teammate David Bailey, Texas A&M’s Cashius Howell, and Alabama offensive lineman Kadyn Proctor.
- The Lombardi follows his Butkus and Bronko Nagurski wins this week, reinforcing national recognition for his 2025 season.
- Rodriguez posted 117 tackles, seven forced fumbles, four interceptions, and earned Pro Football Focus’ highest grade in the country.
- Texas Tech won the Big 12 title behind his 13 tackles in the championship game and holds the No. 4 CFP seed, with an Orange Bowl matchup on Jan. 1 against the Oregon–James Madison winner.