Mike Rucker - Career Overview

Position: Defensive End (DE)
Date of Birth: February 28, 1975

Career Timeline

• Team: Carolina Panthers
• Years Active: 1999 - 2007

Career Highlights and Accomplishments

• Drafted: 2nd Round (38th overall) in the 1999 NFL Draft by the Carolina Panthers.
• Games Played: Appeared in 132 games over his NFL career.
• Sacks: Recorded a total of 34.5 sacks.
• Tackles: Accumulated 205 total tackles during his career.
• Playoff Appearances: Contributed to the Panthers' playoff runs, including their journey to Super Bowl XXXVIII in 2004.
• Leadership: Known for his leadership on and off the field, Rucker was a key figure in the Panthers' defensive unit.
• Retirement: Rucker retired after the 2007 season, leaving a legacy as one of the franchise's notable defensive players.

Legacy

Mike Rucker is remembered as a foundational player for the Carolina Panthers during their early years in the NFL. His contributions helped shape the team's defensive identity, and he remains a beloved figure in franchise history.