Chris Rucker Scouting Report

Michigan State University's Chris L. Rucker is currently a senior cornerback for the Spartans. Rucker has started games in all his four years at MSU. He recently served eight days in jail for a probation violation. He was arrested for a DUI on October 10th that was later downgraded to a reckless driving. He also was convicted of a misdemeanor assault back in March.

Character issues aside, Rucker is a NFL prospect with NFL-ready size and speed. He is adequate in man coverage and could be much smoother in his hips. His technique will need to improve at the next level, as he allows receivers inside leverage on slant routes too easily and can be beat deep due to poor transitions when playing deep ball. Often plays the man, rather than the ball, when his back is to the quarterback.

Against the run, he shines with good read/reaction and an ability to make plays in traffic.

Rucker will likely slip a round due to his recent off-the-field issues. Heading into the season he was one of those borderline players trying to earn his way into the second tier of cornerbacks. Due to issues and mediocre play, he is slipping on draft boards.

Rucker currently projects as a sixth round selection in the 2011 NFL Draft.