Pre-draft Cincinnati Bengals Rucker was selected by the
Cincinnati Bengals in the third round (91st overall) of the
2006 NFL draft. He was placed on the
injured reserve list his rookie year in 2006. In 2007, Rucker contributed on special teams and situational opportunities on defense. He started the final regular season game against the Miami Dolphins and finished with five tackles. In 2008, Rucker started 4 games and played in 11 (both career highs). He finished with 24 total tackles, two forced fumbles, and a pass defensed. In 2009, the
Cincinnati Bengals won the
AFC North and Rucker finished with 13 tackles, and an interception returned 26 yards. In the 2010 season, Rucker had 17 tackles, a sack, and a pass defensed. In 2011, Rucker had 44 tackles and four sacks. He also led all defensive ends in stops per snap percentage.
Cleveland Browns Rucker signed with the
Cleveland Browns on March 14, 2012. He was released during the 2013 offseason on February 5, 2013.
Arizona Cardinals Rucker signed with the
Arizona Cardinals on March 21, 2013. On March 17, 2017, Rucker re-signed with the Cardinals. On November 5, 2017, in Week 9 against the 49ers, Rucker was ejected after being involved in a fight with
Carlos Hyde. On November 10, 2017, Rucker was fined $9,115 for his role in the fight.
Oakland Raiders On June 12, 2018, Rucker signed with the
Oakland Raiders. ==NFL career statistics==