Shock’s James Ruffin signs with Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Spokane Shock career sack leader, defensive end James Ruffin, has signed a contract to play for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers of the NFL.

Ruffin recently completed the 2014 season with the Shock, racking up a franchise single-season record and AFL-leading 14.0 sacks, beating the previous record of 8.5. Ruffin and Mac linebacker Derrick Summers led a Shock defense that recorded a league-leading 40 sacks.

“Of all the people on this team, Ruffin probably deserves this recognition the most,” Shock coach Andy Olson said.

“In the offseason last year he trained harder than anybody.”

In his three years with the Shock, Ruffin recorded 26.0 sacks, 80.5 tackles, 14 quarterback hurries, six forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and one interception that was returned for a touchdown.

During Spokane’s week 18 matchup with the Arizona Rattlers, Ruffin recorded one fumble recovery and one sack of Arizona quarterback Nick Davila that resulted in a Rattlers safety, turning the tide of the game in favor of the Shock. The Shock went on to win the game 73-66.