RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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The Houston Texans did not need to give Keylan Rutledge and Marlin Klein many snaps in their preseason opener to make it clear how the team views both rookies heading into the 2026 season.
With several veterans sitting out Thursday night's matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers, there was an opportunity for younger players to see extended action. Instead, the Texans pulled both Rutledge and Klein after just one possession, a decision that speaks volumes about where the two rookies currently stand.
ESPN's DJ Bien-Aime pointed out just how significant Rutledge's limited workload was, writing, "Rookie center Keylan Rutledge played only one drive, which speaks to the first-rounder's standing as a starter."
That should not come as much of a surprise after the first-round pick spent much of training camp working with the first-team offense at center. Rutledge entered camp transitioning from guard, making his rapid emergence at a new position even more notable. The Texans clearly feel comfortable enough with his progress that they had little reason to expose him to extended preseason action.
The same can be said for Klein, who made his NFL debut count. On the opening possession, quarterback Davis Mills found the second-round pick on a seam route for a 31-yard gain, immediately showcasing the athletic ability that made him an intriguing addition to Houston's offense.
Bien-Aime noted that Klein's workload was also intentionally limited, writing, "Mills found rookie tight end Marlin Klein on a seam route for a 31-yard reception. Klein also was limited to one possession, revealing that Houston is pleased with both of their performances throughout camp."
The wording is particularly important. Houston was not simply limiting two rookies because it was a preseason game. Their early exits appear to reflect the confidence the coaching staff has developed in both players throughout training camp.
Rutledge looks positioned to open the season as the starting center, while Klein appears poised to have a meaningful role in an offense expected to feature more tight-end personnel under offensive coordinator Nick Caley.
Neither rookie needed a massive preseason workload to make an impression. Their limited opportunities, combined with the way Houston has handled them, may have provided an even clearer indication of what is expected from them once the regular season begins.
For two rookies entering their first NFL seasons, being treated like established pieces of the offense is a significant development. The Texans appear increasingly comfortable counting on both Rutledge and Klein right away.
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