It almost seemed too good to be true last spring.
Jeremy Ruckert, son of a diehard Long Island-based New York Jets' fan, was drafted with the No. 101 overall pick by his hometown team.
Unfortunately, Ruckert had a rather forgettable rookie season.
The 6-foot-5 tight end totaled 46 offensive snaps in nine games and garnered only two targets in the passing game. Ruckert did not make his first career reception until Week 18.
The good news for Jets' fans is that likely wasn't the real Ruckert who they watched last season. The Lindenhurst High School (NY) product was bothered by a lingering foot ailment throughout the 2022 campaign.
"Last year, he had plantar fasciitis, as he was dealing with the foot injury all season, but he looks like a guy on a mission," said head coach Robert Saleh during OTAs.
Having returned to full health, Ruckert flashed his potential during multiple springtime practices that were open to media.
"He looks awesome. He’s hungry," said Saleh. "Excited about him and the direction he’s going in for sure."
The second-year pro showed the traits that likely inspired the Jets to make the Ohio State product a Round 3 draft selection.
"He’s really attacked the offseason. He looks fluid. He looks athletic," said Saleh prior to the final OTAs practice
With Tyler Conklin out due to an undisclosed injury, Ruckert received a fair share of practice reps this spring.
"We’re not in pads yet, but I’m not worried about him in pads. He’s got a nasty streak to him," said Saleh during the last week of OTAs Phase 3.
Ruckert seemingly heads into the 2023 NFL Preseason as Gang Green's No. 3 tight end behind Conklin and veteran C.J. Uzomah, but seventh-round rookie Zack Kuntz is also in the mix.
When it comes to his contributions in the pass game, Ruckert could be a difference maker at the pro level despite lacking gaudy receiving numbers at Ohio State.
In four years as a Buckeye, he totaled 54 receptions for 615 yards and 12 touchdowns, but there weren't many targets to go around on an offense that featured three first-round receivers — Garrett Wilson, Chris Olave and Jaxon Smith-Njigba.
Ruckert possesses the physical tools to become a productive receiving tight end in the NFL. His size and speed could make him a mis-match for opposing defenders.
After a bumpy rookie ride, Ruckert is on the rebound with his hometown team.
"I think he’s very physical, he has a physical mindset to him, so I’m excited for him to get pads on and continue to pick up where he’s left off here in OTAs," said Saleh.
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