Jeremy Ruckert grew up a New York Jets fan and got a chance to meet his favorite player
Some of the New York Jets‘ youngest players were born in this century. One of them grew up a fan of his current team, which means his childhood idol might be the same as many other Jets fans of that age.
Jeremy Ruckert‘s Jets fandom was immortalized on draft night when his dad, Bill Ruckert, led the family in the “J-E-T-S Jets Jets Jets!” chant. The 2022 third-round pick had a quiet rookie season. He has received more opportunities this season, playing 267 offensive snaps through 13 games.
Ruckert played a season-high 33 offensive snaps in the Jets’ 30-6 rout of the Texans. He tied his high in receptions (3) and posted his best yardage total (37) with a 19-yard reception that was his second-longest this season.
Before the game, though, Ruckert received another thrill: he met his childhood idol, Chad Pennington.
Wow! Time flies! All the best @Jeremy_Ruckert1 !! @nyjets #nflbrotherhood https://t.co/QWxMtnf77n
— Chad Pennington (@ChadPennington) December 10, 2023
The Jets selected Pennington at No. 18 in the 2000 draft. He spent eight seasons in green. His best year came in 2002 when he completed 68.9% of his passes for 3,120 yards, 22 touchdowns, six interceptions, and a 104.2 passer rating in 12 starts. He also won Comeback Player of the Year honors in 2006. That season, he returned from shoulder surgery to lead the Jets to the playoffs.
Ultimately, Pennington’s career was largely about what could have been. His arm strength was sapped by multiple shoulder injuries, perhaps leaving much of his potential unmet. Still, No. 10 was a pro’s pro, a revered Jets player, and a deserving idol for any Jets fan of that era.
Incidentally, Pennington continues to create his own football memories, this time as a high school coach.
Former Jets QB Chad Pennington coached a HS team to an undefeated season and walked off with coach-of-the-year honors. Quite an accomplishment, but not surprising. https://t.co/ztnbWNRir8
— Rich Cimini (@RichCimini) December 2, 2023
Ruckert, meanwhile, will continue to serve as the Jets’ second tight end and try to build more of a role as a receiver in the season’s final games.
