Kaimon Rucker to miss the remainder of UNC football program's spring practices

Kaimon Rucker suffered an injury to his middle finger on his right hand during the UNC football program's contest against Clemson last season. The injury was significant, but Rucker battled through the pain to not miss a game down the stretch for his team.

Rucker could have had surgery on the injury right after the season, but chose to hold off for a specific reason. With Geoff Collins taking over as the program's defensive coordinator, the fifth-year defensive player wanted to get acclimated to the new plays, terminologies, and concepts that his new coordinator will implement.

After participating in the early portion of spring practices, Rucker had his surgery on Monday, which will sideline him for an anticipated 2-3 months.

Rucker is expected to be back when summer workouts begin, as he'll be on a fast-tracked program to help him rehab following surgery. He is expected to be a full participant once fall camp rolls along.

There's some good news here for the UNC football program. For starters, Rucker worked out a plan with the coaching staff on the right time to have the procedure. It seems as if everyone is on the same page, as he'll have the ability to rehab and be ready for the start the season.

Additionally, no injury is ever a good one, but in the case of Rucker, it's great to hear that it isn't a more significant injury. He will once again be a huge part of the UNC football program's defense, as they'll need him healthy and effective, especially in pass rush situations.

The UNC football program will conclude spring practices on April 20 as they host their annual spring game at Kenan Stadium in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.