The 2026 NFL Draft is headed to Pittsburgh, and for the Steelers, the focus is clear: fortifying the offensive line. As we scout the top prospects who could don the black and gold, one name stands out as a potential solution at guard: Georgia Tech's Keylan Rutledge.

Rutledge has been one of the draft cycle's most notable risers, evolving from a mid-round projection into a legitimate first-round sleeper. His combination of raw power and athleticism makes him a fascinating target for a Steelers team looking to rebuild its trench presence.

The hype train left the station in earnest after the NFL Combine, where Rutledge posted an elite 9.53 Relative Athletic Score (RAS). This score, which places him in the 90th percentile among guards since 1987, confirmed the high-end athleticism visible on his Georgia Tech tape. He didn't just test well; he proved it against elite competition, turning in a strong performance against a formidable Georgia defense in 2025.

On the field, Rutledge is a mauler in the run game, perfectly suited for a physical AFC North offense. Georgia Tech's gap-heavy scheme showcased his ability to pull, lead runners through holes, and seal edges with impressive timing and force. While he can occasionally play with high pad level, limiting his drive, his initial punch is powerful, and he excels at latching onto defenders and controlling them without drawing flags.

His athleticism truly shines when he's asked to climb to the second level. Rutledge explodes into linebackers and safeties, demonstrating the mobility that modern NFL offenses crave from their interior linemen. For a Steelers team needing a cornerstone guard, Keylan Rutledge presents a compelling blend of proven production, elite athletic testing, and the gritty mentality that defines football in Pittsburgh.