Lankster was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the seventh round of the 2009 NFL draft. On August 15, 2009, in a preseason game against the Chicago Bears, Lankster intercepted Bears' backup quarterback Brett Basanez twice within a span of 64 seconds. Both turnovers led to touchdowns for Buffalo, ultimately helping them win the game 27–20.[3]
Lankster got some playing time in the 2009 season as a cornerback in nickel defense situations, due to injuries to other defensive backs. Head coach Perry Fewell said of Lankster, "we think he's gotten better every week for us."[4] He finished the 2009 season with five tackles.[5]
Buffalo released Lankster on the deadline for final roster adjustments in the 2010 preseason, September 4.[6]
Lankster signed a future contract with the New York Jets on January 5, 2011.[9] He was waived on September 2.[10] He was re-signed to the active roster on October 11.[11] His playing time greatly increased in 2012, including significant assignments covering fast receivers, following an injury to Isaiah Trufant.[12] He was released on September 1, 2014.[13] He was re-signed on September 12.[14] He was released on September 23, 2014.[15]
Buffalo Bills (second stint)
Lankster signed with the Bills on August 17, 2015. The signing marked his return to the team that drafted him. He joined his previous head coach Rex Ryan.[16] He was released by the team on August 31.[17]
Hamilton Tiger-Cats (second stint)
On April 15, 2016, Lankster once again signed with the Tiger-Cats.[18]