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NFL Analyst Ranks Keylan Rutledge Seventh of Seven Rookie Guards With a 43.4 Grade
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- NFL Analyst Ranks Keylan Rutledge Seventh of Seven Rookie Guards With a 43.4 Grade
Houston Texans' offensive line continues to be a major concern after seven games, and first-round pick Keylan Rutledge has struggled to provide the protection C.J. Stroud needs. According to Pro Football Focus' November 3 rookie report, Rutledge received a 43.4 overall grade, ranking seventh among seven evaluated rookie guards. He did not play in Week 8 because Houston was on a bye, so he received no weekly grade.
Rutledge has played 459 offensive snaps this season. His 34.1 pass-blocking grade ranks 73rd among 75 qualified guards, while his 51.5 run-blocking grade ranks 62nd. He has allowed 21 pressures, including two sacks and one quarterback hit, and committed two penalties. His poor pass-blocking performance against the Giants, including a 0.0 PFF pass-blocking grade, was particularly concerning.
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Baltimore Ravens guard Vega Ioane is one rookie Houston can look toward when assessing the position. He holds a 67.9 overall grade and ranks second among nine evaluated rookies in PFF's first-round report.
The coaching staff must help Rutledge improve his hand placement, positioning and recognition of defensive pressure. The upcoming Chargers matchup offers another opportunity to see whether the bye-week adjustments have made a difference.
Texans' Passing Attack Shows Promise, but the Running Game and Defense Need Attention
C.J. Stroud has thrown for 1,867 yards, 11 touchdowns and just one interception through seven games. His connection with Nico Collins and the receiving corps gives Houston a dependable passing threat. The return of Tank Dell and the addition of Marvin Harrison Jr. also provide more options.
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Regardless, Houston's ground attack has struggled to provide balance. The Texans have averaged only around 85 rushing yards per game entering the bye, leaving much of the offensive responsibility on Stroud. Better blocking from Rutledge and the rest of the offensive line would help establish the run and keep opposing defenses from concentrating on the passing game.
Houston's defensive problems have been costly, particularly missed tackles, poor communication and explosive plays allowed. Head coach DeMeco Ryans acknowledged the tackling issue during the team's bye-week preparations, emphasizing the need for better body positioning and wrapping up opponents.
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This story was originally published by Athlon on Nov 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
