Is it still possible to have an Android phone without a Google account, without jailbreaking? I currently have a Catphones phone, which comes unlocked, and at initial login, I skipped the Google account stuff, connected to WiFi, downloaded F-Droid, and loaded apps. I disabled the Google initial login program, most Google stuff, and Chrome, and things were fine.
Can you still do that? Recommended phones, preferably ruggedized?
yes 
If you’re fine with the result it should be OK.
I’d prefer to flash a de-googled ROM since they were designed to operate without an account in the first place.
I recommend one with relockable boot that has been released one or two years ago max: Devices - DivestOS Mobile
If semi-ruggedized is sufficient have a look at Fairphone 4, also available as refurbished, and FP5. You are allowed to install other ROMs, which is not rooting. I use alternative ROMs without a Google account.
+1 on FP4
Although I don’t concider it ruggedized. Rather repairable.
FP4:
Unique modulair design with IP54
Drop test according to MIL810G test standard
FP5:
IP 55
Passed drop tests: ICE 60058-2-31 (1.8m); MIL-810H (1.5m)
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