Laura Rutledge: Bio, Age, Career & More | ESPN & SEC Network

By Roosevelt ReichelMay 02, 2025

Who is Laura Rutledge, the captivating figure seamlessly blending the worlds of sports and entertainment? Laura Rutledge is more than just a sports journalist; she's a multi-faceted personality who has carved a unique path to success, captivating audiences with her insights, charisma, and unwavering dedication to her craft.

Laura Rutledge, a prominent name in the sports broadcasting arena, has established herself as a respected reporter, host, and a familiar face for ESPN viewers. Her journey from beauty pageants to the NFL sidelines is a testament to her versatility and determination. Born as Laura McKeeman on October 2, 1988, in St. Petersburg, Florida, Rutledge's roots are deeply embedded in the Sunshine State, where she spent her formative years, attending Celebration High School in Celebration, Florida.

Category	Details
Full Name	Laura Rutledge (ne McKeeman)
Date of Birth	October 2, 1988
Place of Birth	St. Petersburg, Florida, USA
Education	University of Florida (Bachelor's in Broadcast Journalism, 2011)
High School	Celebration High School
Occupation	Sports Reporter, Host, Beauty Pageant Titleholder
Known For	Work with ESPN and SEC Network, Hosting NFL Live and SEC Nation
Former Titles	Miss Florida (2012), Miss America Delegate (2013)
Husband	Josh Rutledge (married 2013)
Children	Reese Rutledge
Years active	2011Present
Organizations	ESPN, SEC Network, Fox Sports (former)
Nationality	American
Social Media	Instagram, Twitter
Reference	ESPN.com

Rutledge's journey towards recognition began even before her career in sports journalism took flight. In 2012, she was crowned Miss Florida, a stepping stone that led to her participation as a delegate in the Miss America 2013 pageant. This experience honed her public speaking skills and provided a platform to connect with diverse audiences, qualities that would later serve her well in her broadcasting career.

Her professional path began in the world of radio, and she later transitioned to Fox Sports, gaining valuable experience in the industry. However, her career truly blossomed when she joined ESPN in the summer of 2014. Over the past decade, she has become a cornerstone of the network's sports coverage, consistently expanding her portfolio and solidifying her position as one of the marquee sportscasters.

Rutledge's versatility shines through her diverse roles. She has served as a sideline reporter, providing real-time insights and analysis from the field. Her work as a host of popular programs like "NFL Live" and "SEC Nation" has made her a familiar and trusted voice for viewers. It wasn't until June 2020 that she became the host of "NFL Live," a testament to her growth and the network's confidence in her abilities. Before the Super Wild Card finale game, she also hosted "NFL Live," further demonstrating her integral role in ESPN's football coverage.

One of the hallmarks of Rutledge's approach is her ability to connect with her audience. Whether she's delivering breaking news, conducting interviews, or offering analysis, she brings a unique blend of knowledge, personality, and genuine enthusiasm to her work. This ability has made her a popular figure, not just among sports fans but also within the broader media landscape.

Her influence extends beyond the professional realm. Rutledge has created a new generation's Lee Corso, as her daughter, Reese, has become popular with her college football picks during the season, endearing her further to fans. She is also known for her fashion sense, and her outfit choices during "NFL Live" segments often generate considerable buzz, demonstrating her ability to blend style with substance.

Rutledges personal life is an equally compelling narrative. She is married to Josh Rutledge, and together they have a daughter, Reese. This aspect of her life adds another dimension to her public persona, portraying her as a relatable figure balancing a demanding career with the joys and challenges of motherhood. Her ability to maintain a strong presence in both her professional and personal lives has further endeared her to her audience, showcasing her as a role model for many.

The path to her current prominence wasn't a direct one, however. Before gracing NFL fields, Rutledge was a star in her own right, participating in the Miss Florida pageant in 2012 and subsequently becoming a delegate for the Miss America pageant. Her journey underscores her dedication to excellence and the fact that ambition and dedication can lead to stunning accomplishments, in any field. She also worked as a sideline reporter for Fox Sports.

A significant milestone in her career was her 10th year with ESPN, celebrated in 2024. The occasion served as a reflection of her impressive journey, which saw her rise from a reporter on the SEC Network and ESPN to one of the network's most recognizable and respected sportscasters. Rutledge's consistent expansion of her portfolio and establishment within the industry makes her a dynamic force in sports journalism.

Her contributions to the industry are vast and multi-faceted. She brings a blend of beauty, intelligence, and a profound passion for sports to her work. Rutledge hosts programs like "NFL Live" and, as a reporter on the SEC Network, consistently offers insightful commentary, making her a go-to source for sports enthusiasts. She is also known for her contributions to CNN International, where her diverse skillset is utilized. She is also a former beauty pageant titleholder, earning the distinction of being crowned Miss Florida in July 2012.

In the realm of sports broadcasting, Laura Rutledge stands out not just for her role as a host and reporter, but also as a woman who has successfully navigated a field often dominated by men. Her career serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that it is possible to break barriers and achieve success while staying true to oneself. Her achievements reflect the power of ambition, talent, and a genuine love for sports.

In a world that is constantly changing, Laura Rutledge remains a constant presence, a voice that fans trust and admire. Whether she's reporting from the field, hosting a show, or sharing her insights on social media, her impact on the world of sports is undeniable. She's not just a reporter; she is an icon, a woman who has redefined the landscape of sports journalism.

As she continues to shape the future of sports broadcasting, Laura Rutledge is poised to reach even greater heights. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, talent, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Meet Laura Rutledge, host of NFL on ESPN and former Miss Florida beauty

Laura Rutledge, a jornalista que ficou conhecida por causa de uma placagem

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