WATCH: Jeremy Ruckert, family celebrate Ohio State tight end being drafted by hometown Jets
The New York Jets came out of the opening round of the 2022 NFL Draft with three players that were projected top ten picks. On Day 2 of the draft, the Jets continued to pile up an impressive haul. But one of the coolest moments of the draft so far was when the Jets selected Ohio State tight end Jeremy Ruckert with the No. 101 overall pick in the third round on Friday night.
Ruckert, a Lindenhurst, New York native, grew up as a lifelong Jets fan. After his selection, Ohio State tweeted a picture of him with a Jets helmet from his childhood, illustrating the special moment. To add even more to the special moment for Ruckert, we now have video from inside the Ruckert household from the moment he heard his name called.
One of Ruckert’s family members was wearing a Jets shirt, and J-E-T-S chants broke out in the house following the announcement.
Additionally, Ruckert will be teaming up with his former Ohio State teammate in Garrett Wilson with the Jets. Wilson was selected with the No. 10 overall pick on Thursday.
Ruckert should be a valuable addition to the Jets offense
In four seasons at Ohio State, Ruckert was a solid contributor on a Buckeyes offense that was always loaded with talent all over. After bringing in one catch as a freshman in 2018, Ruckert had 14 receptions for 142 yards and four touchdowns in 2019. In 2020, he had 13 catches for 151 yards and five touchdowns.
This past season was Ruckert’s best yet, as he brought in 26 receptions for 309 yards and three touchdowns, averaging 11.9 yards per reception.
Entering the offseason, tight end was a big need for the Jets. They signed free agent C.J. Uzomah in free agency, also adding Tyler Conklin. Ruckert can now slide in as the second or third tight end on the Jets depth chart, and he can play his way into more playing time as the season progresses.
Regardless, Ruckert is undoubtedly excited to be returning home to play for his favorite team in the Jets. And most of the Jets community will be excited about his addition, as well.
In addition to Ruckert and Wilson, the Jets have added Cincinnati cornerback Ahmad “Sauce” Gardner, Florida State defensive end Jermaine Johnson II, and Iowa State running back Breece Hall. New York can continue adding to its impressive haul with two picks in the fourth round on Saturday.