WATCH: Former Ohio State star Jeremy Ruckert's dad starts chant during contract signing
Being selected by the New York Jets in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft was especially exciting for former Ohio State Buckeyes tight end Jeremy Ruckert. He grew up as a Jets fan, and on one of the biggest nights of his football career, it was his hometown team that called his name on the draft stage.
On Monday, the Jets officially signed Ruckert to his rookie deal. But as he signed it, his dad and family standing behind him started a J-E-T-S chant, illustrating the family’s love for the organization.
The same chants broke out when Ruckert was taken on draft night, with his family breaking out in celebration after his name was called. Ruckert will also be teaming up again with former Ohio State wide receiver Garrett Wilson, who was selected with the No. 10 overall pick by New York.
Ruckert was a four-star tight end and the No. 2 player at his position as part of the 2018 recruiting class, according to the On3 Consensus, a complete and equally weighted industry-generated average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.
Ruckert could play himself into a key role on the Jets in time
In four years at Ohio State, Ruckert had a decent bit of production despite being part of a loaded passing offense. He brought in one catch as a freshman in 2018, but then had 14 receptions for 142 yards and four touchdowns in 2019. During the 2020 season, Ruckert had 13 catches for 151 yards and five touchdowns.
Last season was Ruckert’s best with the Buckeyes, hauling in 26 receptions for 309 yards and three touchdowns, averaging 11.9 yards per reception.
Tight end was a major area of concern for the Jets entering the offseason. In addition to drafting Ruckert, the Jets also signed C.J. Uzomah and Tyler Conklin in free agency.
Ruckert might not be a No. 1 option at tight end, but he still has the potential to turn into a solid contributor, at least in the eyes of NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein.
“He’s not as explosive in his route-running as his testing might indicate but will catch what is thrown his way even though he might never be much of a volume target,” Zierlein said. “He has TE2 potential and could become an average NFL starter.”