A historic draft class for Texas Tech sees nine players selected, with David Bailey going second overall to the New York Jets. This is the most Red Raiders drafted since the 1950s, signaling a new era for the program's NFL pipeline. The article details the landing spots and potential impact of Bailey, Jacob Rodriguez (Miami Dolphins), and Lee Hunter (Carolina Panthers), among others.
Lubbock, Texas – The 2026 NFL Draft marked a historic moment for Texas Tech University, with a record-breaking nine Red Raiders players being selected across all seven rounds.
This achievement surpasses previous draft successes, representing the most Red Raiders drafted since the 1950s and the highest number in the modern draft era since 2009. As NFL teams commence their rookie mini-camps, a detailed analysis of each player’s situation and potential impact with their new teams is warranted. The New York Jets made a significant splash by selecting edge rusher David Bailey as the second overall pick, the second-highest draft position in Texas Tech history.
Bailey expressed overwhelming joy upon hearing his name called, acknowledging the unprecedented emotions he experienced. He joins a Jets team desperately seeking to improve their pass rush, having historically struggled in this area. In the 2025 season, the Jets became the first team in NFL history to not record a single interception, and they finished second-to-last in total sacks while allowing a high completion percentage to opposing quarterbacks.
Bailey’s impressive college performance, leading the nation with 14.5 sacks in his single season at Texas Tech, makes him a crucial addition to the Jets’ defensive front seven. Head Coach Aaron Glenn emphasized Bailey’s physical attributes and production as key factors in their decision, stating that he perfectly fits their team’s needs. The Jets are hoping Bailey can replicate his collegiate success and become a disruptive force in the NFL.
Staying within the AFC East, linebacker Jacob Rodriguez was selected by the Miami Dolphins on Day 2 of the draft. Rodriguez is expected to strengthen a Dolphins defense that faced challenges against the run, allowing a significant number of rushing yards and a high yards-per-carry average. They also struggled against the pass, conceding a high completion percentage to opposing quarterbacks.
Dolphins Assistant General Manager highlighted Rodriguez’s well-rounded skillset and his ability to excel in all aspects of the game, making him an ideal fit for their defensive scheme. Rodriguez’s impressive 2025 season at Texas Tech, where he recorded 128 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, a sack, and nine takeaways, culminated in winning the Butkus Award, Bronko Nagurski Trophy, Chuck Bednarik Award, and Lombardi Trophy – a remarkable achievement.
The Dolphins are optimistic that Rodriguez’s playmaking ability and leadership qualities will translate to the professional level. He will be joining forces with another former Red Raider, Jordyn Brooks, to fortify the Dolphins’ linebacker corps. Rounding out the early selections for Texas Tech, defensive tackle Lee Hunter was chosen by the Carolina Panthers in the second round, following a trade-up to secure his services. Hunter holds the distinction of being the first Red Raider ever drafted by the Panthers franchise.
During his single season at Texas Tech, Hunter played a pivotal role in the team’s defensive success, contributing to their impressive 83.5% stop rate – the best in all of college football in 2025. The influx of Texas Tech talent into the NFL signifies a growing recognition of the program’s ability to develop high-caliber players. The success of these nine Red Raiders will undoubtedly be closely monitored by fans and analysts alike, as they embark on their professional careers.
The draft results are a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players, coaches, and staff at Texas Tech, and they represent a bright future for the program’s continued success in producing NFL-level talent. The impact of these players on their respective teams remains to be seen, but the initial expectations are high, and the potential for significant contributions is evident
NFL Draft Texas Tech Red Raiders David Bailey Jacob Rodriguez Lee Hunter New York Jets Miami Dolphins Carolina Panthers
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