Detroit Lions UDFA: CB De'Shawn Rucker injury report

May 18, 2026 - 00:37

The Detroit Lions have added undrafted free agent cornerback De'Shawn Rucker to their roster, bringing him into a competitive defensive backfield. While Rucker's athleticism and college production at Tennessee have drawn attention, his injury history is a key factor as he tries to earn a spot on the final roster.

Rucker's most notable health concern came during the 2022 season when he suffered a hamstring injury that caused him to miss multiple games. The issue lingered for several weeks, limiting his explosiveness and ability to track receivers downfield. He also dealt with a shoulder stinger in 2023, though he did not miss significant time as a result. The stinger required careful management during practices and games, but Rucker was able to play through it.

Beyond those specific incidents, Rucker has been relatively durable throughout his college career. He appeared in 37 games over four seasons, starting 22 of them. His ability to stay on the field for the majority of his time at Tennessee is a positive sign for the Lions, who are looking for depth behind their established cornerbacks.

The Lions' medical staff will likely focus on strengthening Rucker's hamstring and shoulder to prevent recurring issues. For a UDFA, staying healthy is often the first step toward making the team. If Rucker can avoid further injuries and show the same ball skills he displayed in college, he has a real chance to compete for a role in Detroit's secondary.