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Texans trade up to grab Georgia Tech guard Keylan Rutledge at No. 26
Houston moved up for a guard who started 13 games last season and allowed zero sacks, reinforcing an offensive line rebuilt around C.J. Stroud.
- On Thursday night, the Houston Texans traded up to the 26th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft to select Georgia Tech offensive guard Keylan Rutledge from the Buffalo Bills. The team secured a prospect considered one of the top interior linemen available.
- General Manager Nick Caserio aggressively moved up from the 28th pick to secure Rutledge rather than wait until picks 38 or 59. The Texans prioritized reinforcing their offensive line after ranking 30th in pass block win rate last year.
- A 6-foot-4, 316-pound standout from Georgia Tech, Rutledge earned All-ACC honors while anchoring one of the nation's top offensive lines. Scouts praised his power at the point of attack and competitive toughness in controlling defenders.
- Houston sent picks 28, 69, and 167 to Buffalo in exchange for the 26th and 91st selections. Rutledge will immediately compete for interior playing time, potentially transitioning to left guard or center from his college right guard position.
- The Texans pair Rutledge with left tackle Aireontae Ersery, continuing their aggressive offseason investment in the offensive line. With five remaining draft picks, including the 38th and 59th selections, Houston can further address roster needs.
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Texans trade up to grab Georgia Tech guard Keylan Rutledge at No. 26 in NFL draft
It’s the first time the Texans have taken a player in the first round since drafting quarterback C.J. Stroud and defensive end Will Anderson Jr. with the second and third picks in 2023.
·Houston, United States
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Total News Sources37
Leaning Left14Leaning Right0Center17Last UpdatedBias Distribution55% Center
Bias Distribution
- 55% of the sources are Center
55% Center
L 45%
C 55%
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