The leading candidate in this scenario is Texas Tech standout Jacob Rodriguez, a player several analysts view as a Day 1 starter for Buffalo. He would join Dorian Williams in the middle, potentially moving Bernard into a reserve role as the Bills replenish the position behind the scenes.
Rodriguez is billed as a tackling machine, with strong efficiency at shedding blocks and diagnosing plays. He’s praised for production that includes elite tackling numbers and playmaking ability, traits that Jim Leonhard’s defense would value in a starter who can immediately contribute.
Buffalo enters the 2026 NFL Draft with seven total picks but no second-round pick, having traded one away for DJ Moore. A move to acquire Rodriguez in the early part of the second round would likely involve trading down to accumulate additional second- and third-round selections to bolster the roster with multiple impact rookies.
Beane has acknowledged a need to add linebackers, noting that free agency did not yield a true solution and that some veterans are seeking more money or waiting for the draft. The current linebacking corps includes Terrel Bernard, Terrel Williams, Keonta Jenkins, Joe Andreessen, and Jimmy Ciarlo, highlighting why Buffalo is widely viewed as prioritizing upgrade and depth at the position.
Bernard signed a four-year, $42 million contract and logged 65 tackles and one interception last season, underscoring both his potential and the volatility surrounding his role. If Rodriguez or another LB prospect lands in Buffalo, Bernard’s future with the Bills could come into sharper focus as the team retools its defense around a possible new starter.
