Laura McKeeman: From Beauty Queen To ESPN's Star Reporter

Kim Schaden 10 Jul 2025

In the dynamic world of sports broadcasting, certain personalities shine brighter, not just for their insightful commentary but for their remarkable journeys. One such individual is Laura Rutledge, widely recognized for her captivating presence and extensive knowledge across various sports networks. While many know her as Laura Rutledge, her journey began as Laura McKeeman, a name that carries with it a story of diverse talents, ambition, and a seamless transition from the glitz of beauty pageants to the intensity of live sports reporting. Her path is a testament to versatility, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

Born on October 2, 1988, in St. Petersburg, Florida, Laura McKeeman Rutledge is a true Florida native. Growing up in the Sunshine State, she spent her childhood in Florida and attended ‘Celebration High, laying the groundwork for a future that would see her become a prominent figure on national television. As a Libra, born under the air sign, her balanced and charismatic personality seems to perfectly align with her public-facing career. Standing at an impressive 5 feet 10 inches (1.80 m), her commanding presence was evident long before she graced our screens.

Early Life and Pageant Success

The Florida Roots

Laura's early life in St. Petersburg, Florida, provided the backdrop for her formative years. This foundation in Florida instilled in her a sense of community and perhaps, a natural affinity for the vibrant sports culture prevalent in the state. Her attendance at ‘Celebration High suggests a well-rounded upbringing, preparing her for the multifaceted challenges and opportunities that lay ahead in her career.

Crowned Miss Florida

Before she became a household name in sports journalism, Laura McKeeman first captured public attention in a different arena: beauty pageants. She is an American beauty pageant titleholder from St. Petersburg, Florida, who was named Miss Florida 2012. This significant achievement not only showcased her poise and grace but also likely honed her public speaking skills, stage presence, and ability to connect with an audience – qualities that would prove invaluable in her subsequent career in broadcasting. Her success in the pageant world demonstrated an early aptitude for performance and communication, setting the stage for her future endeavors.

A Seamless Transition to Sports Journalism

Early Career Steps

Laura Rutledge's career trajectory is a compelling narrative of strategic growth and seizing opportunities. Long before she became the host of ESPN’s “NFL Live” or the SEC Network’s “SEC Nation,” she had to make a huge decision about her future. She began her professional journey in sports media, notably working for FOX Sports before making the significant jump to ESPN. This early experience provided her with foundational knowledge and exposure to the fast-paced world of sports reporting, preparing her for the larger platforms she would soon conquer.

Making Her Mark at ESPN and SEC Network

Laura's arrival at ESPN marked a pivotal moment in her career. She joined the ESPN network in 2014 as a reporter on the SEC, quickly establishing herself as a knowledgeable and engaging voice. Her talent and dedication led to expanded roles, and she officially joined the ESPN news team on August 17, 2020, after her tenure at FOX Sports. Today, Laura Rutledge is an American reporter and host for ESPN and the SEC Network, a role that encompasses a wide range of responsibilities.

Her work primarily revolves around American football, where she has become a beloved figure among fans. College football fans have grown to love ESPN's Laura Rutledge for her coverage of the sport over the years. Her insightful reporting and natural on-screen charisma made her a standout. Demonstrating her versatility and ambition, she recently started a new gig, making the jump to covering the NFL. This transition underscores her ability to adapt and excel in different facets of sports journalism.

Laura Rutledge is known for hosting SEC Nation on ESPN, a popular show that delves into the world of SEC football. Furthermore, she is also the host of ESPN’s year-round weekday NFL news and information show, NFL Live. Her roles as a reporter and host for both the SEC Network and ESPN’s NFL coverage solidify her position as a leading voice in American sports media. Beyond her extensive work with ESPN and the SEC Network, Laura McKeeman Rutledge is also currently working for CNN International, showcasing her broad appeal and journalistic prowess across different news domains. She is best known for her work with CNN International, further highlighting her diverse portfolio.

Beyond the Broadcast: Personal Life

A Sports-Centric Love Story

Laura’s life off-screen is just as interesting, particularly her marriage to former professional baseball infielder, Joshua Alan Rutledge, widely known as Josh Rutledge. Their love story is truly a sports match made in heaven. Laura McKeeman met her husband, Josh Rutledge, a professional baseball player, at a football tailgate in 2011. After about two years of dating, the couple tied the knot on December 7, 2013. Their relationship beautifully intertwines their personal lives with the world of sports, making them a power couple in the athletic sphere.

Family Life

While the details are kept private, it is known that Laura Rutledge has a daughter. This aspect of her life adds another layer to her identity, balancing the demands of a high-profile career with the joys and responsibilities of motherhood. Her ability to navigate both roles speaks volumes about her dedication and time management.

Her Presence and Influence

Connecting with the Audience

Laura Rutledge maintains a strong connection with her audience, not just through her television appearances but also via social media. Her Instagram account, @LauraMrutledge, boasts an impressive following of 295K Followers, where she shares insights into her professional life and glimpses of her personality. With 1,286 Following and 1,986 Posts, her active engagement is evident. Her Instagram bio, "i love bloopers," reveals a lighthearted and relatable side, further endearing her to fans.

A Respected Voice

Laura Rutledge has cemented her reputation as a highly respected journalist and host. Her coverage of major events, such as the Super Bowl in her hometown of Tampa Bay, Florida, demonstrates her capability to handle high-pressure situations with professionalism and expertise. Whether she is delivering breaking news, conducting interviews, or providing in-depth analysis, her clear communication and authoritative yet approachable demeanor make her a trusted source of information for millions of viewers. Her journey from a beauty queen to a leading sports reporter highlights her versatility and determination to excel in every endeavor she undertakes.

In summary, Laura Rutledge, originally Laura McKeeman, is a remarkable American reporter and host whose career spans beauty pageants, and prominent roles across ESPN, SEC Network, and CNN International. Born in St. Petersburg, Florida, in 1988, she was crowned Miss Florida 2012 before making a significant leap into sports journalism. She is known for hosting ESPN's NFL Live and SEC Nation, covering both college and professional football with great success. Married to former MLB player Josh Rutledge since 2013, she exemplifies a blend of professional excellence and personal fulfillment. Her journey is a testament to her multifaceted talents and enduring impact on the world of media.

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