Miami Dolphins rookie linebacker Jacob Rodriguez hit the ground running when he reported to the team for rookie minicamp back in May. Fast forward to the end of September, and Rodriguez has not slowed down. The second-round pick not only claimed a starting role in the middle of Miami’s defense, he also established himself as the defensive signal caller, relaying the plays being called, ensuring every player is lined up correctly, and adjustments are made.
And he tackles. And tackles. And tackles. He
has 28 tackles through three games, tying for the eighth-most in the league. He also had a highlight interception last week, somehow diving for a ball tipped twice before he was able to secure it 20 yards downfield after the linebacker started at the line of scrimmage:
It’s been a great start to the season and Rodriguez’s career. According to then South Florida Sun Sentinel’s David Furones, Rodriguez’s fast start puts him squarely in the discussion for Defensive Rookie of the Year.
Rodriguez’s play has him, not just in the Defensive Rookie of the Year conversation, but betting odds and prediction markets now label him the favorite after Week 3, leapfrogging New York Jets edge rusher David Bailey this week.
Rodriguez, of course, was team-first when told he’s the new favorite for the prestigious award
“It’s pretty cool, but I think it’s more important to get stuff done on the field and find more success with this team,” he told the South Florida Sun Sentinel. “It’d be cool. It’d be a really appreciated experience, but I think it’s not really something I’m focused on.”
Welcome to the Splash Zone, a collection of Dolphins stories from around the web curated for you each morning. You can check out that story and more right here:
Defensive Rookie of the Year? Dolphins’ Jacob Rodriguez shining early after diving interception – David Furones, South Florida Sun Sentinel
Take a deep dive into Miami Dolphins rookie linebacker Jacob Rodriguez’s first career interception, the way Rodriguez himself dove to secure the football before it hit the ground.
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Dolphins vs. Vikings preview
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Why Hafley Feels the Dolphins Offense Is Prepared for the Flores Flurry – Alain Poupart, Miami Dolphins on SI
The Miami Dolphins will be facing their former head coach in Week 4
The Dolphins lost Achane for the year. Will Willis be used more in the run game? – C. Isaiah Smalls II, Miami Herald
Malik Willis’ rushing prowess really showed against the Kansas City Chiefs.
The Dolphins’ reality with Flores’ looming blitzes. And news from locker room – Barry Jackson, Miami Herald
A six-pack of Dolphins notes on a Wednesday:
Jacob Rodriguez
Why Rodriguez Already Looks Like a Generational Pick for the Dolphins – Alain Poupart, Miami Dolphins on SI
Second-round pick Jacob Rodriguez has put himself in the Defensive Rookie of the Year conversation with his strong start
Jeff Hafley and Brian Flores
Brian Flores built his teams to fight. So is Dolphins’ Jeff Hafley – Joe Schad, The Palm Beach Post
After it was over, after the Miami Dolphins had lost to the Kansas City Chiefs in a game that was closer for longer than most experts predicted, everyone spoke about the fight.
Will Brian Flores lawsuit against NFL prevent him from becoming a head coach again? – Omar Kelly, Miami Herald
Let’s step into an imaginary world and pretend we can change history for one column. Let’s say Brian Flores’ personality didn’t make him difficult to work with, or that he wasn’t insubordinate to an owner who wanted his franchise to tank the 2019 season.
Dolphins injuries
Dolphins’ Caleb Douglas still sidelined, while Jaylen Wright progresses; Storm Duck returns to practice – David Furones, South Florida Sun Sentinel
Miami Dolphins wide receiver Caleb Douglas is still not ready to practice to start the week of preparation ahead of Sunday’s game at the Minnesota Vikings, according to coach Jeff Hafley, but running back Jaylen Wright at least participated on a limited basis Wednesday.
Dolphins’ De’Von Achane out for season: Why Jaylen Wright gets edge – Joe Schad, The Palm Beach Post
The devastating season-ending knee injury to Miami Dolphins running back De’Von Achane puts the team in a significant bind.
Dolphins’ Hafley addresses running back situation, key personnel issues, injuries – Barry Jackson, Miami Herald
For now at least, the Dolphins are filling their running back void from within.
Duck’s Return Highlights First Dolphins Injury Report for Week 4 – Alain Poupart, Miami Dolphins on SI
Miami Dolphins CB Storm Duck has spent the first month of the regular season on the Physically Unable to Perform list
Dolphins Week 4 opponents: Minnesota Vikings news
Assessing the Vikings Offense – Warren Ludford, Daily Norseman
It’s been an ugly start to the season for the Minnesota Vikings’ offense, at least from a total yards perspective, but most major efficiency metrics as well.
Dolphins jerseys
Examining the Idea of the New-Look Dolphins Getting a New Look in 2027 – Jake Gibson, Miami Dolphins on SI
Everything to know about the possibility of uniform changes coming to the Miami Dolphins
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ICYMI – The Phinsider News and Updates
Miami Dolphins fan confidence survey in Week 4 – Kevin Nogle, The Phinsider
How are you feeling about the direction of the Miami Dolphins?
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