UND’s Lance Rucker Expected to Make Full Recovery from Injury

In a positive update regarding player health, the University of North Dakota (UND) Fighting Hawks junior edge rusher Lance Rucker is not expected to suffer long-term effects from injuries sustained during the team’s loss to Tarleton State on March 15, 2024. Head coach Eric Schmidt provided this information during his season-ending press conference on Monday.

Rucker was injured during the first half of the game, which ended with a score of 31-13 in favor of Tarleton State. After an impressive performance that included breaking the school’s single-season sack record, Rucker collided with teammate Kaden Vig while rushing the passer. The impact resulted in Rucker receiving medical attention on the field before he left the game under his own power.

Following the incident, Rucker did not return to the field with his teammates after halftime. He briefly appeared on the sidelines during the third quarter but exited with a UND medical professional. Rucker traveled back to Grand Forks with the team on their charter flight.

Injury Details and Recovery Outlook

Coach Schmidt indicated that Rucker’s injury involves nerve issues and a significant abdominal contusion, with blood pooling in the affected area. “It’s really some nerve things,” Schmidt stated. “I think it’s just a really bad abdomen contusion right now, but a lot of blood pooled up in that part of his body… Our doctors are still working on it to find exactly what it is.”

Despite the pain he experienced, Rucker was able to visit the UND facilities the day after the game. Schmidt noted that the severity of Rucker’s injury was evident, as the player typically does not exhibit much emotion or pain. “When he’s on the field in pain, you know that it’s something serious,” Schmidt explained.

The coach emphasized that while Rucker will likely experience soreness in the coming weeks, the prognosis is encouraging. “Ultimately, I think he’s going to be able to recover here. You give him a few weeks, and he’ll be back to normal,” Schmidt added.

Future Considerations for Rucker

As the season concludes, attention turns to Rucker’s future with the Fighting Hawks. The all-Missouri Valley Football Conference selection may consider entering the transfer portal, and Schmidt confirmed that discussions between Rucker and the coaching staff would take place later that day.

Looking ahead, the Fighting Hawks plan to adhere to their spring ball schedule, which will commence after spring break and extend later than in previous years. Schmidt highlighted the importance of involving the team’s top true freshmen in weekly game plans, emphasizing the need for them to focus on strength training during the offseason.

As the UND Fighting Hawks prepare for the next season, the health and recovery of players like Lance Rucker will be critical to their success on the field.