Keylan Anthony Rutledge (born September 2, 2003) is an American professional football guard for the Houston Texans of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders and Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets and was selected by the Texans in the first round of the 2026 NFL draft.
Early life Rutledge was born on September 2, 2003 in Royston, Georgia. He attended high school at Franklin County located in Franklin County, Georgia. Coming out of high school, he committed to play college football for the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders.
College career Middle Tennessee During his two-year career as a Blue Raider from 2022 through 2023 he played in 22 total games, while making 17 starts, where he was named first-team all-Conference USA in 2023. After the conclusion of the 2023 season, he decided to enter his name into the NCAA transfer portal.
Georgia Tech Rutledge transferred to play for the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets. During his first season as Yellow Jacket in 2024, he appeared in all 13 games, with 12 starts, where for his performance he was named first-team all-ACC. Heading into the 2025 season, Rutledge was named to the preseason all-ACC team, while also being named to the Outland Trophy watch list, as he projects to be one of the top players in the ACC and the nation. Following the 2025 season, Rutledge was named an All-American by multiple respected publication, and was named all-ACC. He took home the Piccolo Award, given to the ACC's most courageous player.
Professional career
Rutledge was selected in the first round of the 2026 NFL draft with the 26th overall pick by the Houston Texans. On June 4, 2026, Rutledge signed his four-year rookie contract with the Texans.
References
External links Houston Texans bio Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders bio Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets bio