The UNC football program has been fortunate to have a man like Kaimon Rucker leading their locker room and local communities.
Rucker embodies everything Carolina football stands for: passion, perseverance, kindness and an unwavering work ethic.
The senior defensive end was recently named one of only three national finalists for the Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year Award. The finalists were selected from a list of 20 semifinalists, and the winner will be announced on February 12, 2025.
Due to his exceptional courage, integrity and sportsmanship, Kaimon Rucker is a finalist for Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year. 👏 pic.twitter.com/9aCDLIXGoq
— Carolina Football (@UNCFootball) December 16, 2024
The Jason Witten 82 site describes this prestigious award, currently in its eighth annual season.
“In line for the award, which recognizes exemplary leadership both on and off the field, are Ahmed Hassanein of Boise State, Kaimon Rucker of North Carolina and J.J. Weaver of Kentucky.”
Proud to announce the three finalists for this year’s Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year, given to the top leader in college football: @A_Hassanein91 of @BroncoSportsFB, @_kruck75_ of @UNCFootball and @jjtimeee of @UKFootball. https://t.co/Tp0oorbU3n pic.twitter.com/POR1zqWex0
— Jason Witten Award (@WittenCMOY) December 16, 2024
This is a major accomplishment for Rucker and the North Carolina football program. Being recognized in such an exclusive group of finalists is a testament to Rucker’s devotion to his teammates and community.
Not only is “The Butcher” a role model for everyone donning pads and UNC argyle, but he’s also a role model for the youth. His leadership runs deeper than football.
“The leader of UNC’s defensive unit, Rucker is a true standout in the community as well, where he provided personal hygiene items from his personal funds for fifth graders at his old elementary school who are experiencing physical changes to their bodies. He conducted a seminar with the fifth graders, primarily males, in an effort to educate them on this phase of their life. Rucker already earned his undergrad degree and is currently pursuing his master’s.”
In 2023, Rucker was named to the All-ACC Defensive Second-Team. This season, Rucker battled injuries, requiring surgery earlier in the season and recently suffering a cracked fibula from a cheap shot in the NC State game. Even while missing five games, plus most of the NC State game, Rucker still racked up six sacks, 30 total tackles and an interception.
Rucker never let his injuries deter his fiery spirit. While he was hurt, he was often seen on the sideline, at the center of huddles, pumping up his teammates. This just goes to show that attitude is everything, and Rucker always stayed positive despite having tough luck with injuries. Even when Rucker couldn’t be out there himself, he always cared about the greater good — his teammates and community.
Rucker is the ultimate teammate and leader. He's a shining example of excelling on and off the field — inspiring others and impacting tomorrow’s generation.