Sheldon Taylor Rankins Bio
Sheldon Taylor Rankins, born April 2, 1994, is an American professional football defensive tackle currently playing for the Houston Texans in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at the University of Louisville and was selected by the New Orleans Saints in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft.
Early Life and Background
Sheldon Rankins was born in Covington, Georgia, and attended Eastside High School in his hometown. His early exposure to football at Eastside High laid the foundation for his athletic career. Rankins committed to the University of Louisville, where he continued to develop his skills as a defensive tackle.
Path to American Football
At Louisville, Rankins was primarily a backup during his freshman and sophomore years, recording 22 tackles and four sacks. His junior year marked a turning point as he started all 13 games, accumulating 53 tackles, eight sacks, and two interceptions. In his senior year, he further improved with 58 tackles, six sacks, and a fumble return touchdown, showcasing his growing impact on the field. His collegiate performance positioned him as a strong candidate for the NFL draft.
Sheldon Rankins Career
Early Career (2016–2017)
Rankins was selected 12th overall by the New Orleans Saints in the 2016 NFL Draft. He signed a four-year contract with the Saints but suffered a broken fibula during practice before his rookie season, which delayed his debut. He was activated mid-season and finished his rookie year with 20 tackles, four sacks, and a forced fumble. In 2017, Rankins started all 16 games, contributing to the Saints’ defense improving from 31st to 10th in scoring defense. He recorded 26 tackles, one forced fumble, one interception, and one pass defensed that season.
New Orleans Saints Breakthrough (2018–2020)
In 2018, Rankins started all 16 games and recorded 40 tackles and eight sacks, the second-best on the team. He made a career highlight in Week 8 by recording two sacks against the Minnesota Vikings. Unfortunately, he suffered a torn Achilles in the divisional playoff round, ending his season early. The Saints exercised the fifth-year option on his contract in 2019, but injuries limited his play to 10 games with 10 tackles and two sacks. In 2020, Rankins was placed on injured reserve with a knee injury but returned to play 12 games, recording 2.5 sacks and 23 tackles. He also sacked the quarterback in the Wild Card playoff game against the Chicago Bears.
New York Jets Era (2021–2022)
Rankins signed a two-year, $17 million contract with the New York Jets in March 2021. During his first season, he played 16 games with three starts, tallying three sacks, 32 tackles, seven quarterback hits, and two fumble recoveries. In 2022, he forced a notable fumble against the Buffalo Bills but suffered a dislocated elbow that sidelined him for several weeks. He returned to finish the season with 15 starts, three sacks, 43 tackles, and one forced fumble.
Houston Texans and Cincinnati Bengals (2023–Present)
In March 2023, Rankins signed a one-year, $10.5 million contract with the Houston Texans and was named the starting right defensive tackle. He played 15 games, recording 37 tackles, six sacks, and a forced fumble, and scored his first NFL touchdown by returning a fumble recovery. In March 2024, he signed a two-year deal with the Cincinnati Bengals, starting seven games with 18 tackles and one sack before missing games due to injury and illness. He was released by the Bengals in February 2025 and re-signed with the Houston Texans on a one-year, $5.25 million contract in March 2025.
Driving Style and Strengths
Rankins is known for his strength and quickness on the defensive line, excelling at disrupting offensive plays with sacks and tackles for loss. His ability to force turnovers and pressure quarterbacks makes him a valuable asset in defensive schemes. His experience and resilience have been key factors in his sustained NFL career.
Notable Events and Milestones
Rankins’ career highlights include being a first-round NFL draft pick, recording multiple multi-sack games, and scoring his first NFL touchdown with the Texans in 2023. Despite injuries, he has demonstrated consistent performance and impact on the defensive front.
Sheldon Rankins Career Wins
As a defensive tackle, Rankins’ contributions are measured in tackles, sacks, and forced turnovers rather than wins. Throughout his career, he has been a consistent defensive presence for each team he has played with, contributing to their defensive successes.
Other Wins & Performances
Rankins has been a key player in playoff appearances with the New Orleans Saints and has recorded multiple impactful plays such as forced fumbles and sacks that have influenced game outcomes.
Sheldon Rankins Family
Personal Life
Details about Sheldon Rankins’ personal life, including family and marital status, are not publicly disclosed.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, Sheldon Rankins rejoined the Houston Texans on a one-year contract. His experience and previous performance with the team position him as a key defensive player for the upcoming season. The Texans will rely on his ability to strengthen their defensive line and contribute to their competitiveness in the league.