Keylan Rutledge Scouting Report

Keylan Rutledge is a powerful interior offensive lineman who can step right in and provide high-level play as a run blocker in the NFL.

Draft Grade: Round 2 - Winning Starter

Strengths:

Strength and Power: Rutledge has great overall strength in both pass protection and the run game. His strength and power allow him to displace defensive linemen in the run game, creating effective movement and opening running lanes. In pass protection, he is able to anchor against interior defensive linemen who try to utilize immediate power rushes. Keylan has great power in his hands, and when he shoots them, he is able to effectively slow down defenders.

Run Blocking: Rutledge shows the combination of IQ, power, and relentless effort to become a high-end run blocker in the NFL. Rutledge has the appropriate mental and physical temperament; he gets under the pads of defensive linemen and combines his strength with quick steps to generate the power needed to move them off the football. Additionally, he is able to effectively climb to the second level, make contact with defenders, and create opportunities for ball carriers. Rutledge also excels in pulling actions where he serves as the kick-out blocker; he is able to locate defenders and effectively seal them off to open a lane for the runner.

Physicality: One of the first things that jumps off the film is Rutledge’s willingness to finish plays. He plays with a violent demeanor, looking to put defenders into the ground, and he is a player who consistently plays through the whistle. When Rutledge doesn't have a direct assignment, he looks for extra work by helping teammates and throwing his shoulders into defenders in pass protection. He sets a physical tone in both the run and pass game and has the potential to be a leader of an offensive line unit, helping establish a physical culture along the front.

Scheme Versatility: Rutledge has the natural strength and power to be a high-level offensive lineman in a primarily power-run scheme, but he also possesses the quickness and IQ to play in zone systems. He understands how to work with both the center and the tackle to execute diverse blocking schemes effectively.

Concerns:

Hand Placement: Rutledge has a by any means necessary approach, which can get him into trouble at times. There are moments where Rutledge will place his hands outside of the defender's chest plate; this can lead to holding calls in both the run game and pass protection. In the NFL, Rutledge will need to focus on keeping his punches inside the chest plate to reduce the potential for penalties.

Balance/Body Control: Rutledge is an aggressive offensive lineman who can occasionally be over-aggressive in his approach to seeking contact. This can result in Rutledge getting his head over his toes, causing him to lose overall control and making it difficult to sustain blocks. This lack of body control also prevents him from regaining his balance and repositioning himself to effectively finish the rep.