10
Loading video...
By Anne Erickson
0
Share
Newsweek is a Trust Project member
See more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.
Keylan Rutledge isn't being treated like a rookie in Houston.
The Texans traded up to select the former Georgia Tech offensive lineman with the 26th overall pick for a reason, and they've wasted little time giving him the chance to compete for snaps during training camp.
That's one of the more interesting storylines to watch.
Read More on NFL
Houston didn't move up in the first round to draft depth. The Texans are looking for players who can help protect quarterback C.J. Stroud, and Rutledge has a chance to become part of that plan sooner rather than later.
He's already getting a lot of work. Rutledge has been competing with veteran offensive linemen while taking reps at both guard and center, giving the coaching staff multiple ways to get him on the field. That kind of versatility is valuable, especially for a team trying to build the strongest offensive line possible.
The more positions he can play, the harder he becomes to take off the field. His college résumé also speaks for itself.
More news: Bills Already Have a Player to Watch in Training Camp
...
During his final season at Georgia Tech, Rutledge didn't allow a single sack across 872 offensive snaps. That's the type of consistency that catches the attention of NFL scouts, especially when it's paired with the physical style he plays.
That's probably what stands out the most. Rutledge has built a reputation for playing with an edge. He's physical, aggressive, and doesn't shy away from contact. Offensive linemen don't always grab headlines, but they tend to earn respect quickly when they play with that kind of attitude.
Training camp is giving him the chance to show those traits against NFL competition.
More news: One Bears Player to Watch in Training Camp
The Texans know protecting Stroud is one of the biggest priorities on the roster. If Rutledge can continue proving he belongs with the first-team offense while handling multiple positions, he'll make the coaching staff's decisions a lot easier to make.
View 0 Comments
Submit Correction
View Editorial & AI Guidelines