Entering what many viewed as a make-or-break season, New York Jets tight end Jeremy Ruckert has delivered, and then some, through 12 games.
That progress hasn’t gone unnoticed by Gang Green’s coaching staff.
Speaking with reporters on Thursday, offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand offered strong praise for the former Ohio State standout.
“We’re excited where he’s at right now; he’s done a really nice job,” said Engstrand.
Ruckert has hauled in 16 of his 18 targets for 131 yards and a touchdown, but his most noticeable improvement has been as a run-blocker.
Last season, Ruckert was nothing short of a liability. He ranked among the league’s worst blocking tight ends, a harsh reality for a backup tight end in today’s NFL, where blocking is the priority and any pass-catching ability is simply a bonus.
He posted a 39.0 run-blocking grade from Pro Football Focus, the second-worst mark among qualified tight ends, ahead of only Tennessee’s Chigoziem Okonkwo.
This year, he hasn’t been perfect, but the growth is undeniable. His run-blocking grade has climbed to 56.6, placing him 53rd among 89 qualified tight ends, right in the expected range for a decent No. 2 option.
The final five games of the season will be critical for the former fourth-round pick, who is in the last year of his contract and aiming to secure an extension in the Big Apple.
In Jets X-Factor’s first mock offseason, we projected Ruckert to land a three-year, $8.5 million deal to stay in New York.
