Jeremy Ruckert highlights 3 legends from the 2000s as his favorite childhood New York Jets players; one Jets icon feels left out
New York Jets fans know the drill by now: Jeremy Ruckert is one of them.
Ruckert grew up as a die-hard Jets fan in Lindenhurst, New York, which is part of Long Island’s Suffolk County. The Lindenhurst High School star went on to enjoy a successful four-year career at Ohio State and was recently chosen by his childhood team with the 101st overall pick in the third round of the 2022 NFL draft.
At the Jets’ rookie minicamp, Ruckert was asked to name a few of his favorite Jets players to watch while growing up. He listed some classic fan favorites.
“I went up to Leon Washington, I loved watching him return kicks,” Ruckert said. “I loved watching Darrelle Revis and Revis Island. That was a big thing for me growing up with all my friends … D’Brickashaw Ferguson grew up in Long Island as well, so just knowing him, and just a bunch of guys. I was a fan my whole life so it’s pretty surreal to be here.”
Good picks, @Jeremy_Ruckert1 pic.twitter.com/Qbu7m2SJxs
— New York Jets (@nyjets) May 7, 2022
Not everyone was thrilled with Ruckert’s answers.
Ruckert’s fellow Ohio State Buckeye, former Jets center Nick Mangold, wishes he made the list. Through a Twitter reply, Mangold joked, “Kinda hurts but I get it”.
Kinda hurts but I get it
— Nick Mangold (@nickmangold) May 6, 2022
Ruckert noticed Mangold’s reply and made sure to give some love to the seven-time Pro Bowler and Buckeye legend. The New York native replied, “Didn’t forget! Pops had your jersey, you are loved in the Ruckert house!”
Didn’t forget! Pops had your jersey, you are loved in the Ruckert house! @nickmangold https://t.co/cKaX6o9HrM
— Jeremy Ruckert (@Jeremy_Ruckert1) May 7, 2022
It had to be a fun draft for Mangold, who watched his Jets draft two Buckeyes: Ruckert and wide receiver Garrett Wilson (selected 10th overall in the first round).
Ruckert and Wilson are the 16th and 15th players to be drafted out of Ohio State in Jets franchise history. Four of the previous 14 Buckeyes to represent the organization made at least one Pro Bowl: running back Tom Matte (1961 draftee), running back Matt Snell (1964), tackle Dave Foley (1969), and Mangold (2006).
The Center is not a glamorous, but very important position for the team. A Quarterback is only as good as the guys in front of him. Just win This season!
If you don’t have a center, you’re going to have a lot of false starts.