Jeremy Ruckert has long been viewed as a tantalizing projection for the Jets: a 6-5, 250-pound tight end with long arms and reliable hands who might unlock more in the passing game. In three seasons as a Jets backup, he’s totaled 35 receptions for 264 yards. Yet his true calling has always been in the trenches—his blocking ability is what powered his success at Ohio State, helped him earn a draft slot with the Jets, and now, as he nears the end of his fourth preseason with the club he grew up rooting for, positions him as a potential sixth offensive lineman in a run-focused offense.
The coaching staff has pushed a physical, violent identity and a commitment to a regular, powerful ground game. That philosophy sits well with Ruckert’s strengths, and he’s embracing a role tasked with bulldozing in the C gap on every snap. “My role specifically is to win that C gap and play every down and feel comfortable out there doing whatever they ask,” he said after Friday night’s preseason finale against the Eagles. “I feel good about it, feel good about the direction we’re going with these running backs and Justin [Fields at quarterback]. I’m excited about it.” The C gap—just beyond the offensive tackle—has become his new daily office.
In the passing game, the Jets have other options. Mason Taylor was drafted to contribute as a receiver, and he’s likely to be listed as the starter when the 53-man depth chart is published later this week. But Ruckert’s value could be found in his blocking, a trait head coach Aaron Glenn has praised. “He’s a true Y tight end, someone who can get in line and move people off the ball,” Glenn said. “Seeing him handle a 280-pound man in practice is impressive. There’s more room to grow, but I like the direction he’s headed.”
Ruckert himself said the camp was productive, focusing on consistency and becoming a dominant blocker. He acknowledged the high expectations for the unit and his own progress, and he’s hopeful about continuing to develop with the team.
Of course, this time of year brings roster scrutiny, especially for a player in the final year of his rookie contract. Speculation has swirled about whether Ruckert will remain with the Jets past the cut-downs on Tuesday. He played in the preseason game against the Eagles when others didn’t, which only adds to the discussion. For now, he’s focusing on the moment and staying grounded. “I don’t even think about that,” he said. “I’m just where my feet are at.”
Ruckert isn’t alone in the tight end room. He’s among a crowded group that includes Stone Smartt and fullback Andrew Beck, with the team potentially looking to upgrade the position. Smartt has shown flashes in practices and games, contributing to a room that has become a key area to watch as the Jets shape their roster.
Experience with the team remains a credential for Ruckert—an edge, some might say, in a room that now leans on leadership and familiarity. Smartt called him “vocal” and a New York kid through and through, someone who has helped teammates acclimate to life in Florham Park and the NFL on and off the field. It’s a steadying presence in a position group that is evolving as the new staff builds its identity.
For now, the Jets are in Florham Park, continuing to map out how this unit will function and whether Ruckert can be a cornerstone of the offense in ways that extend beyond the stat sheet.
Jets deal Nnadi
In another move after adding two defensive tackles in trades, the Jets traded defensive tackle Derrick Nnadi to Kansas City for a conditional sixth-round pick in 2027. Nnadi, 29, started for Kansas City during its two Super Bowl-winning seasons and joined the Jets on a one-year, $1.4 million deal in March. The Jets also added Harrison Phillips from Minnesota and Jowon Briggs from Cleveland last week to bolster the interior alongside Pro Bowler Quinnen Williams.
Team cuts seven players
The Jets announced several roster moves: linebackers Jamin Davis was released, quarterback Adrian Martinez was waived, along with defensive end Michael Fletcher, tackle Liam Forandel, tight end Zach Kuntz, defensive back Tanner McCalister, and running back Lawrance Toafili.
What this means for the Jets
– Ruckert’s blend of blocking discipline and leadership could give him a stable, repeatable role in a run-first identity, even if his primary production remains as a blocker rather than a primary receiving threat.
– The tight end room remains fluid, with Mason Taylor expected to handle the pass-catching duties, while Ruckert’s blocking could be the deciding factor for his place on the roster.
– The roster moves at defensive tackle and other positions indicate the Jets are aggressively shaping depth to support a physical, downhill style as they move toward the regular season.
Summary
Jeremy Ruckert is positioning himself as a key blocker in a Jets offense prioritizing the run, with his leadership and experience in Florham Park shaping how the unit approaches the season. The team also reshapes its front with Nnadi’s trade away and several roster cuts, signaling a new-frontier approach as it builds around a physical identity.
Positive takeaway
Ruckert’s proven strength as a blocker and his vocal leadership could stabilize a tight end room that’s adding young talent, while the club’s trades and cuts reflect a broader plan to bolster the front and create a more imposing, run-heavy attack. The upcoming roster decisions will reveal how much faith the new staff places in his role.
Additional context
– If Ruckert contributes primarily as a blocker, fantasy value may hinge on his involvement in short-yardage and red-zone packages rather than receiving targets.
– The Jets’ ongoing efforts to strengthen the interior defense and line depth suggest a broader strategy to control the game on the ground and shorten games through sustainable drives.