#29 Bernardo Rodriguez

Redshirt Freshman | 5-10 | 188 lbs. | Coppell, Texas

Courtesy Kansas State Athletics

• Position: Punter
• Previous College: None
• Projection: Starter
• Status: Preferred Walk-On

Bernardo Rodriguez Palacios (b. July 6, 1998) is a walk-on punter who was born in Mexico City and has an above-average of becoming not just the successor to Mitch Lochbihler and Nick Walsh, but also of earning a scholarship in the offseason if he can perform well.

He punted one time for 31 yards for the White team in the 2018 spring game.

Rodriguez, who redshirted in 2017, played under head coach Mike Dewitt at Coppell High School in Texas, where he was a two-time all-district honoree, including his senior year, in which he was the District 9-6A Special Teams Player of the Year.

He punted 83 times in his career for a 32.4-yard average, with 13 punts landing inside the 20-yard line, and did not allow a single return yard in his 38 punts as a senior.

Rodriguez also recorded 235 rushing yards on 38 attempts during his career and returned six kickoffs for 250 yards during his senior season, which included a 100-yard touchdown.

He helped the Cowboys to earn a 10-3 record and a bi-district championship, and also participated in track and field. Here’s what Chris Sailer Kicking had to say about Rodriguez:

Bernardo is a very good high school punter (who) shows potential to be great. A good looking athlete with a strong leg. Hits a nice ball at times. As he continues to work on his technique and consistency, he will challenge at the college level. I look forward to seeing his development. ... Nice prospect.