Writing in The Advertiser, Rucci rated Westhoff at number 32 ahead of the 2014 home-and-away season.
The 27-year-old Eudunda product was one of Port Adelaide's most important players last year.
Eventually winning the club's Coaches' Award for his dedication to the team's selfless values, Westhoff made a name for himself throughout 2013 as a 'swingman' capable of playing all over the ground thanks to his rare combination of exceptional endurance and height.
He committed to the club for a further three years with one season remaining on his contract, ensuring he will remain at Alberton until at least the end of 2017.
Teammates and 2013 All-Australians Travis Boak and Chad Wingard also made Rucci's Top 50.
John Cahill Medallist Chad Wingard came in at number 25 while the captain was tanked at number 19.
Boak and Wingard also appeared in the top 50 rankings of award-winning journalist Mike Sheehan.