Former Gamecock Corey Rucker will transfer to a familiar place
Corey Rucker is expected to head back to his old stomping grounds.
The South Carolina transfer receiver is likely set to return to Arkansas State, where he began his career, The State confirmed through sources with knowledge of the decision. Matt Zenitz of On3.com first reported the news Wednesday.
It’s not yet clear whether Rucker will be immediately eligible to play, given he already transferred once and would be required to sit out a year under NCAA rules. A source with knowledge of the situation told The State that Arkansas State is hoping Rucker can be ruled eligible this year via a waiver.
Rucker was hampered by injury during his one season in Columbia, appearing in just two games. His one reception this year was a 52-yard touchdown catch against Charlotte on Sept. 24.
Prior to arriving at USC, Rucker was a dynamic playmaker for the Red Wolves over his first two years in Jonesboro. He recorded 75 catches for 1,279 yards and 14 touchdowns, including a 310-yard, four-touchdown effort against UL-Monroe in 2020.
South Carolina is set to return Antwane “Juice” Wells, Xavier Legette and Dakereon Joyner at receiver in 2023, though there was some belief that Rucker could have worked his way into the rotation this past fall had he been healthy.
Gamecocks in the transfer portal
Each player’s landing spot is listed in parentheses
DE Jordan Burch — Jan. 5
RB Rashad Amos — Jan. 1 (Miami of Ohio)
DE Hot Rod Fitten — Dec. 31
LS Matthew Bailey — Dec. 31
DE Gilber Edmond — Dec. 15 (Florida State)
WR Corey Rucker — Dec. 14 (Arkansas State)
RB MarShawn Lloyd — Dec. 12 (Southern Cal)
DB Tyrese Ross — Dec. 6
TE Jaheim Bell — Dec. 5 (Florida State)
TE Austin Stogner — Dec. 5 (Oklahoma)
LB Darryle Ware — Dec. 5
DB Joey Hunter — Dec. 5 (Akron)
OL Jordan Davis — Nov. 30 (South Alabama)
DB R.J. Roderick — Oct. 17 (Liberty)
This story was originally published January 11, 2023 at 12:05 PM.
