Ru’Quan Buckley is taking the next step in his football journey, officially declaring for the NFL Draft after wrapping up his college career at Michigan State.
The defensive lineman spent the past two seasons in East Lansing after transferring from Nebraska, where he began his collegiate career. Buckley, a redshirt senior this past season, saw action in 23 games for the Spartans, tallying 23 tackles - including four for loss - and two sacks during that stretch.
Before his time at Michigan State, Buckley was with the Cornhuskers for three seasons, but playing time was limited. He appeared in just nine games across those years, which led to his transfer ahead of the 2024 season in search of a bigger role and more consistent reps.
At Michigan State, Buckley found more opportunity on the defensive front. While he wasn’t a headline-grabbing stat machine, he brought size and depth to the Spartans’ rotation.
His 6-foot-6 frame and versatility along the line made him a reliable piece, particularly in run defense situations. He may not have put up gaudy numbers, but his physical tools and experience in two Power Five programs could make him an intriguing prospect for teams looking to bolster their defensive line depth.
The Grand Rapids native now turns his attention to the next level. Whether he hears his name called during the draft or earns a shot as an undrafted free agent, Buckley’s path will be one to watch. He’s got the size, the work ethic, and the kind of under-the-radar story that NFL teams love to take a chance on.