Texans name rookie Keylan Rutledge starting left guard for season opener

Houston Texans general manager Nick Caserio confirmed rookie Keylan Rutledge has earned the starting left guard position for the team's September 13 season opener against the Buffalo Bills. Rutledge, who played his way into the starting lineup during training camp and preseason, is projected to anchor the line alongside center Evan Brown and right guard Ed Ingram. The rookie demonstrated physical play during joint practices, engaging in skirmishes with Raiders defensive standout Maxx Crosby. His elevation follows a 2025 season where Houston struggled with offensive line blocking metrics. The Texans roster also includes tackles Aireontae Ersery and Trent Brown as part of the rebuilt unit, while newly signed lineman Braden Smith remains on injured reserve.

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