Monday was NFL Draft decision around Tar Heel football as three of the team’s stars announced that they were leaving early to go pro. One of the players that was noticeably absent from that group was Kaimon Rucker, who has appeared on some big boards throughout the season as a Day 3 guy. Earlier today, Rucker addressed his future in his media availability after practice.
“Yeah, I’ll take the COVID year,” the senior edge rusher said. “I’m considering my fifth right now. I have a lot of options. I’m still surveying those options, but I am heavily leaning toward a fifth right now.”
Rucker also addressed his decision to play in the bowl game instead of sitting out. “I’m committed to this team,” he said. “I just wanna help my boys. I’ve been here since day one and I just love these boys a lot. Not bashing the boys that left because I want them to be the most successful people they can be, but for me, there is still so much I can learn as well.”
Rucker’s return would be a huge boost for next year’s defense. He finished third in the ACC in tackles for loss (14.0) and sacks (8.5) and top five in the country in quarterback pressures (58). Aside from the stats, this would also give the team a much-needed leader on that side of the ball with Cedric Gray turning pro.