Paul Rubelt, the 6-foot-10 offensive tackle from Frankfurt (Oder), Germany, is generating significant buzz as a potential NFL draft pick in 2026. The UCF Knights lineman, who has emerged as one of the most intriguing prospects in this year’s class, recently hosted the Denver Broncos for a Top 30 visit, underscoring his rising profile among professional scouts.
Rubelt’s journey to American football prominence began in his hometown of Frankfurt (Oder), where he played for the Frankfurt-Oder Red Cocks before moving to the United States in 2020. His physical stature—listed at 6-foot-10 and 310 pounds—has drawn consistent attention, but it’s his athletic testing that has particularly intrigued NFL teams. At UCF’s Pro Day, Rubelt recorded a 4.99-second 40-yard dash, an exceptional time for a player of his size, along with a 32-inch vertical leap.
“Per source, Broncos held top 30 visit with Central Florida OT Paul Rubelt,” reported Denver’s 9News via X, noting that Rubelt would stand taller than Broncos offensive tackle Frank Crum, who measures 6-foot-8 and 315 pounds. The visit highlighted Rubelt’s versatility, having started 12 games at right tackle in 2024 and 10 games at left tackle in 2025 for the Knights.
His performance on the field has been matched by academic and leadership recognition. Rubelt was named to the 2025 Big 12 All-Academic Team, earned CSC Academic All-District honors, and was selected as a 2026 NFF Hampshire Honor Society member. He also served as president of UCF’s Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and was a nominee for the Allstate AFCA Quality Works Team.
On the field, Rubelt played a key role in UCF’s offensive success. In 2024, he helped the Knights lead the Big 12 in rushing offense at 248.1 yards per game, ranking fifth nationally. The unit also finished 14th in the nation in total offense at 447.2 yards per game. His pass-blocking grade of 78.7% ranked second among UCF starters that season.
Rubelt’s Pro Day performance improved his draft stock significantly, with analysts noting his rare combination of size, speed, and agility. “If you take a shot at drafting me, I’ll give you my all,” Rubelt told 247Sports. “Whoever takes a chance on me, they won’t regret it.”
The Broncos’ interest in Rubelt aligns with their demand to address depth at the offensive tackle position. Whereas Denver has established starters at guard and center, the tackle spot remains an area for potential upgrade, particularly as they plan for the future beyond veterans like Garrett Bolles and Mike McGlinchey.
As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, Rubelt represents a unique prospect: a German-born lineman with elite physical traits, proven collegiate production, and off-field intangibles. His visit with the Broncos is one of several evaluations shaping his path to the professional ranks.
For continued updates on Paul Rubelt’s draft journey and other NFL prospects, follow Archysport’s coverage of the 2026 NFL Draft process.
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