Texas Tech’s football program made an impressive transformation last season, boasting one of the strongest defensive lines in college football. Ends David Bailey and Romello Height showcased their prowess with double-digit sack totals, earning them spots among the top 15 in the Football Bowl Subdivision. Tackle duo Lee Hunter and Skyler Gill-Howard excelled at overpowering blockers, allowing their teammates to capitalize and secure plays. This formidable defense played a significant role in the Red Raiders not only clinching their first outright league title since 1955 but also achieving their first Big 12 Championship and a spot in the College Football Playoff.
The success of these standout players didn’t go unnoticed, as four of the five transfers who contributed significantly to Texas Tech’s rise have now been invited to the NFL’s annual scouting combine in Indianapolis. Former teammate Jacob Rodriguez praised them, highlighting not only their athletic skills but also their strong character and impact on the team culture.
The season proved particularly beneficial for Rodriguez, who took full advantage of playing behind a formidable defensive front. He concluded the season with outstanding stats: 128 tackles, seven forced fumbles, four interceptions, and two fumble recoveries. His standout performance catapulted him into the spotlight, as he finished fifth in the Heisman Trophy voting.
However, Texas Tech’s ambition came with a hefty investment, reportedly around $7 million to secure these elite athletes. A substantial portion of this budget was allocated to Bailey, who gained a reputation as one of the highest-paid defensive players in college football amid the rise of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals.
Bailey stands by his worth, emphasizing the integral role of his fellow linebackers. “They should have paid the inside linebackers a little bit more,” he remarked, acknowledging their leadership on the defense.
The dynamics of college football have undeniably shifted with the introduction of NIL deals, as players are no longer just chasing careers but also lucrative opportunities. NFL teams are keenly aware of this change, as players arrive at the combine with new financial realities and aspirations. NY Jets coach Aaron Glenn reflected on the differences he experienced, noting the current players are receiving compensation commensurate with the revenue they generate for their colleges.
As players like Cam Ball discuss their journeys, it’s evident that NIL deals are enabling athletes to pursue personal passions, such as Ball’s barbecue ventures inspired by his late father. Former Bearcats tackle Dontay Corleone has also embraced his marketing potential, partnering with a local restaurant. Hunter, on the other hand, has leveraged his NIL earnings to improve his family’s circumstances, demonstrating the positive impact of financial opportunities in college sports.
As Texas Tech players prepare for the next chapter in their football careers, the question remains whether the momentum they built at college will carry into the NFL. With Bailey projected as a top-five draft pick and both Hunter and Rodriguez ranked highly in their positions, their futures seem promising. However, the paths of Height and Gill-Howard remain less certain. Nonetheless, Texas Tech’s legacy in collegiate football has been solidified, showcasing the prowess of their defensive front as both a pivotal force and a source of pride for the university.