Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez has been named the 2025 Lombardi Award™ winner, earning the honor Wednesday night at the Hilton Americas–Houston. The award recognizes the nation’s top college lineman or linebacker.
Historic First for Texas Tech
Rodriguez becomes the first player in Texas Tech history to receive the Lombardi Award™, emerging from a finalist group that included David Bailey, Cashius Howell, and Kadyn Proctor.
Rodriguez Reacts to the Honor
“This is an amazing honor. Everything that the Lombardi Award™ stands for is something very important to me,” Rodriguez said.
A Standout Season
This accolade adds to an already dominant year for Rodriguez, who also won the Butkus Award and Bronko Nagurski Award. He remains a Heisman Trophy candidate and a finalist for multiple national honors.
By-the-Numbers Impact
Entering the postseason, Rodriguez has logged 117 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, seven forced fumbles, four interceptions, and two fumble recoveries. He leads the FBS in forced fumbles and is the only player since 2005 to record at least five forced fumbles, four interceptions, and two fumble recoveries in one season.
Versatility on Both Sides of the Ball
The Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year has also contributed offensively as a Wildcat quarterback, making him the only player in the nation with both an offensive and defensive touchdown this season.
About the Lombardi Award™
Established in 1970 in honor of legendary coach Vince Lombardi, the award celebrates athletes who exemplify discipline, character, and excellence. Hosted annually in Houston, the event also raises funds for cancer research, generating more than $4 million since its inception.
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