When Detroit Lions rookie linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez opened the box containing his custom-painted cleats, he could barely hold back tears. The cleats, designed for the NFL’s annual “My Cause, My Cleats” initiative, were more than just equipment for Sunday’s matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars—they were a heartfelt tribute to his late grandmother, Yolanda Martinez.
Martinez passed away earlier this year after a courageous battle with sarcoma. For Rodriguez, she was more than a grandmother; she was a guiding figure who shaped his childhood. He spent endless days at her home alongside his brother and cousin while their parents worked. Together, they built forts in her living room, laughed over peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, and indulged in her homemade tostadas, Mexican rice, and beans. Martinez made sure her grandsons not only felt loved but also learned discipline—especially when it came to finishing every meal on their plates.
Her diagnosis came not long after Rodriguez began his college career at Oklahoma State. Despite her illness, Martinez remained his biggest supporter. Even when she couldn’t attend games, she never missed the chance to call or text her grandson with encouragement. In a bittersweet twist of fate, Rodriguez received the life-changing call from the Lions during her funeral service. He has always believed it was destiny—proof that she would remain part of his NFL journey.
For his tribute, Rodriguez chose to have his cleats painted in yellow, the color symbolizing sarcoma awareness. He asked for his grandmother’s name and portrait to be carefully added. The result stunned him. Seeing her face so vividly detailed on the side of his right shoe brought him close to breaking down on camera. “When I first saw them, I teared up a little bit,” Rodriguez admitted. “The picture looks identical to her. I know my family will be proud, and I can’t wait to represent her.”
Rodriguez is one of at least 26 Lions players and coaches participating in the program this year, each using their cleats to spotlight causes close to their hearts. Some, like linebacker Alex Anzalone, are raising awareness about human trafficking. Others, such as Bobby Price, are focusing on youth health and wellness. Many players plan to auction their cleats through NFL Auction, where proceeds go directly to charities of their choice. Rodriguez, however, intends to keep his pair and gift them to his father’s side of the family as a keepsake.
“I just want to recognize her,” Rodriguez said softly. “I know she’s looking down, smiling, and happy. This is something I want to do for my family.”
Head coach Dan Campbell praised the initiative, saying it allows players to use their platform beyond the field. “This is one of those good things that has transpired over the years,” Campbell said. “It shines a light on what’s important to them, and I think it’s a great thing.”
For Rodriguez, it’s more than great—it’s personal. His cleats will not only protect his steps on the field but also carry the spirit of his grandmother with him every game.