Home / Sports / Rutledge Overcomes Injury to Shine at NFL Combine
Rutledge Overcomes Injury to Shine at NFL Combine
2 Mar
Summary
- Keylan Rutledge played guard and center, impressing scouts.
- He allowed zero sacks in 801 regular-season snaps.
- Rutledge recovered from severe injuries sustained in an accident.
Keylan Rutledge, a standout offensive lineman from Georgia Tech, concluded his participation in the 2026 NFL Combine, drawing significant attention from NFL teams. His performance was particularly noteworthy given his remarkable recovery from severe injuries sustained in an automobile accident in December 2023.
Rutledge, who primarily played guard at Georgia Tech, also demonstrated proficiency at center during practice sessions, addressing a key concern for scouts regarding his positional versatility. His performance at the Senior Bowl earlier in the predraft process also garnered praise.
Throughout his college career, Rutledge was a model of consistency and protection, allowing no sacks in 801 regular-season snaps, according to Pro Football Focus. This exceptional performance contributed to Georgia Tech's offensive line ranking fourth nationally in fewest sacks allowed.
Rutledge's accolades include being a first-team All-ACC selection and recipient of the ACC's Brian Piccolo Award, recognizing him as the conference's most courageous player. He also earned multiple All-America honors from various publications, marking him as Georgia Tech's first consecutive All-American since 2011-2012.
