In the 6th Round of the 2022 NFL Draft, the Detroit Lions selected LB Malcolm Rodriguez out of Oklahoma State.
Following the pick, the Lions released the following highlight video to hype up their newest linebacker.
Folks, this kid is going to compete for a starting spot in 2022.
Another addition to the defense!#LionsDraft | @powerhomesolar pic.twitter.com/oUE09QdxWJ
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) April 30, 2022
From Earlier:
We are now deep into Day 3 of the 2022 NFL Draft and the Detroit Lions just made their first of two 6th Round picks.
http://gty.im/1394648280
With the No. 188 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, the Lions have selected LB Malcolm Rodriguez out of Oklahoma State.
Adding a linebacker to the draft class.
Welcome, @malcolmlrod!#LionsDraft | @powerhomesolar pic.twitter.com/1qv1T5Hhbi
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) April 30, 2022
Here is what Dane Brugler of The Athletic had to say about Rodriquez prior to the start of the draft.
A four-year starter at Oklahoma State, Rodriguez played weakside linebacker in former defensive coordinator Jim Knowles’ 4-2-5 base scheme. A high school quarterback, he played safety for two seasons in Stillwater before moving to linebacker because of injuries in 2019. He then led the team in tackles three consecutive seasons, becoming just the fourth player in school history to reach 400 career tackles. Rodriguez is quick to read his keys and make plays, both behind the line of scrimmage and in space (recorded at least six tackles in 40 of his final 50 games played). More concerning than the lack of height is his lack of arm length to punch himself off blocks or make up for imperfect tackling angles. Overall, Rodriguez won’t be for everyone with his poor size and linear tendencies, but he understands football geometry with the diagnose skills and competitive toughness to see the field in the NFL. He will need the right fit, similar in ways to Seattle Seahawks LB Ben Burr-Kirven.
The Lions’ next 6th Round pick is currently at No. 217 overall.
Nation, how do you feel about this pick? Do you think he can contend for a starting spot in 2022?
