Houston Texans’ biggest offseason gamble has turned out to be a massive disaster for CJ Stroud and the offense

Ryan Roberts argues that the Houston Texans' decision to trade back into the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft for guard Keylan Rutledge has turned out to be a major disappointment. Roberts highlights that the rookie was acquired to serve as a reliable floor-setter for quarterback CJ Stroud and the offense, but his performance through the first half of the season has fallen well short of expectations.

To acquire Rutledge at pick 26, Houston surrendered picks 28 and 69, along with a fifth-rounder, while receiving pick 91. Playing at guard, Rutledge has allowed 21 quarterback pressures and posted a 34.1 pass-blocking grade, though Roberts notes the second half of the season will reveal whether the rookie can rebound.