Early returns from the Kansas City Chiefs shifting Kingsley Suamataia to guard seem promising. The second-year pro still needs to develop before reaching the level of an average NFL offensive lineman, but he possesses the physical tools to make the jump. If Suamataia doesn’t improve this season, the Chiefs could consider taking a guard in the 2026 NFL draft.
Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets guard Keylan Rutledge is one of the toughest prospects in the 2026 class. He nearly lost part of his foot as the result of a car accident that occurred late in 2023 but rebounded to reach All-American heights. Last week against Clemson, Rutledge briefly exited the game with a bloody nose but jumped back into the fray as soon as he received some gauze.
Rutledge mauls defenders with his aggression and play strength. He competes through the whistle and constantly looks for opportunities to pancake defenders. Rutledge’s arresting grip strength and powerful core help him ensnare and then torque defensive linemen out of their gaps. He generates enough rotational force to fling his opponents to the ground.
Rutledge launches powerful punches in pass protection that re-route defenders and deter power rushers. His strike placement generally prevents defenders from accessing his chest. Rutledge displays an above-average anchor that helps him grind down bull rushes, but his high pad level and inconsistent base width sometimes cause him to be driven into the pocket.
In the run game, Rutledge uncoils out of his stance and drives power through his frame to blow defenders out of gaps and generate vertical displacement. He lacks the high-end agility and explosiveness for more complex assignments but is quick enough to pull for gap runs or combo block to the second level.
Rutledge’s football IQ and more than 2,300 snaps of experience show up in his usage of angles in the run game. He keeps run lanes clean while using his heavy hands and leg drive to cave in defenders.
Rutledge currently projects as a third round selection but could rise to the second round if he continues his strong season and performs well at an All-Star event. There’s a slight chance he slides on draft night due to concerns about the foot injury he suffered in that 2023 car accident.
Georgia Tech looks to continue its undefeated season today at 3:30 CT against Temple. No ranked opponents remain on the team’s schedule until the showdown against in-state rival Georgia in the regular season’s final week.