Slimmed-Down Rutledge Aims to Boost Mocs Defense

UTC linebacker Zion Rutledge dropped 15-20 pounds to improve his speed and build on breakout season.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 8:50pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a linebacker in motion, with the player's form broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in the team's colors of blue, gold, and white, conveying the player's speed and athleticism.Rutledge's offseason transformation aims to make him a more dynamic and impactful player for the UTC defense.Chattanooga Today

Zion Rutledge, a starting linebacker for the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga football team, has slimmed down by 15-20 pounds in the offseason to improve his speed and build on a solid first season as a starter. The coaching staff felt Rutledge's lack of speed at 235 pounds affected his ability to make plays in space, so they worked with him to lose weight while maintaining his strength. Now a leaner and quicker version of himself, Rutledge is ready to lead the Mocs defense in his final season of college football.

Why it matters

Rutledge emerged as a key defensive player for UTC last season, leading the team with 100 tackles. However, the coaching staff felt his lack of speed at his previous playing weight was holding him back. By slimming down, Rutledge aims to be more effective in coverage and in making plays all over the field, which could be a big boost for the Mocs' defense as they look to bounce back from a down year in 2025.

The details

Rutledge, a former state champion wrestler in Georgia, has always been known for his strong work ethic. The coaching staff worked with him this offseason to lose 15-20 pounds while maintaining his strength, believing the extra speed would make him more effective. Rutledge said the biggest challenge has been adjusting to moving at his new, lighter weight, but he's confident the changes will pay off on the field. UTC has a history of quality linebacker play, and the staff believes a leaner, quicker Rutledge can continue that tradition.

  • Rutledge led UTC with 100 tackles last season, weighing in at 235 pounds.
  • This offseason, Rutledge slimmed down by 15-20 pounds to improve his speed.

The players

Zion Rutledge

A starting linebacker for the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga football team who led the Mocs with 100 tackles last season.

Rusty Wright

The head coach of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga football team.

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What they’re saying

“We felt like as strong as he is and all that, that he was capable of losing that weight and not losing any strength and being that guy and doing that stuff.”

— Rusty Wright, UTC Head Coach

“I lost a good amount, but I think it's paid off definitely because I've always been one of those guys that was just naturally strong, so I don't think I really lost too much of that in losing all that weight. I think I just kind of toned up a little bit, so I've been liking it. It's been working out.”

— Zion Rutledge, UTC Linebacker

What’s next

Rutledge will look to build on his breakout 2025 season and lead the UTC defense in his final year of college football. The Mocs will open their 2026 season on September 5th against Kennesaw State.

The takeaway

Rutledge's offseason transformation shows his dedication to improving his game and helping the Mocs bounce back after a down year. By slimming down and maintaining his strength, he aims to be a more dynamic and impactful player on the defense, which could be a key factor in UTC's success in 2026.