Rucker Hopes his Time is Thursday with Steelers

Micah Rucker is hoping Thursday night is his chance to show the Pittsburgh Steelers.

“I think Thursday the starters may play a series,” the former Eastern Illinois wide receiver said. “I think pretty much I’ll have a full game.”

The Steelers’ final preseason game against the Carolina Panthers could determine whether the rookie free agent lands a spot on the Steelers roster for the regular season, is sent to the developmental practice squad or is sent packing with no job at all.

“You can feel the pressure in the air,” Rucker said Monday. “A few guys were let go today. Everyone is on their P’s and Q’s trying to do things right. You want to finish camp strong and make things as hard as you can on the coaches. All I can do is play as hard as I can and let God take care of the rest.”

Trying to learn routes for all three receiver positions with the Steelers, Rucker figures the Y spot works best for him, going inside and using his size.

But the 6-foot-6 two-time All-Ohio Valley Conference star is willing to fill any role, including special teams, for this NFL chance.

In the Steelers’ win the past Saturday, Rucker got into the game late for a two-minute drill but had no passes thrown to him.

“I’m feeling a little more comfortable,” he said. “We’ll see how things go.”