Jeremy Ruckert's journey with the New York Jets has been a rollercoaster, but it seems like the ride is finally smoothing out. The tight end position is now one of the deepest on the Jets' roster, and Ruckert is right in the mix, carving out a niche for himself.
The Jets have been busy stocking up on tight ends. They snagged Kenyon Sadiq from Oregon in the first round of this year's draft, following up on last year's second-round pick, Mason Taylor.
But let's not forget about Jeremy Ruckert, the former Ohio State standout, who secured a two-year, $10 million extension last December. This move was a clear indication that the Jets see value in what Ruckert brings to the table.
Ruckert's first three years in the league were, to put it mildly, a bit rocky. He struggled to find the end zone and had his fair share of blocking blunders.
However, the 2025 season marked a turning point. Under the guidance of the Jets' new regime, Ruckert found his rhythm, scoring his first career touchdown and hauling in a career-high 23 receptions.
More importantly, his blocking game took a significant step forward, earning him a $5 million guaranteed investment from the team.
Fast forward to 2026, and Ruckert's role is evolving once again. With Sadiq and Taylor ahead of him in the pecking order, he's not expected to see many targets.
But don't count him out just yet. Ruckert's value might lie in his ability to block, especially in a league where three-tight end sets are becoming more popular.
The Jets could very well lead the charge in utilizing this package, particularly since Sadiq, though talented, may need time to develop his blocking skills at the pro level. In such scenarios, Ruckert could be the preferred choice for in-line duties.
The Jets' decision to extend Ruckert's contract suggests they have faith in his blocking capabilities. But does the game tape back that up? Has Ruckert truly made the strides needed to be the Jets' reliable blocking tight end?
These questions are tackled head-on in the latest edition of Blewett’s Blitz, where Ruckert's 2025 season is dissected through an in-depth film breakdown. It's a must-watch for any Jets fan eager to see how Ruckert is shaping up as a key piece of the team's offensive puzzle.
In Other News...
Jets Suddenly Linked To A Wild Quarterback Lifeline
The Jets quarterback picture already had a placeholder feel to it, with Geno Smith expected to handle the 2026 season while the team keeps one eye on the next wave of passers. Against that backdrop, any outside chatter about a longer-term answer is going to catch attention, even if it comes wrapped in more imagination than certainty.
NFL.com took that idea to a surprising place by floating a reunion with Frank Reich as part of a wild comeback scenario for Andrew Luck, though the notion still sits firmly in the realm of long-shot speculation. Luck has not played in years, and while the fit is easy to picture on paper, the broader reality is that a return to the league remains highly unlikely. [Read more 🡒]
Jets Linked To Familiar Quarterback Idea As Backup Anxiety Builds
The Jets have settled on Geno Smith as their Week 1 starter, but the depth chart behind him is still in flux, and that has kept the backup quarterback conversation alive around the team. Bailey Zappe is currently listed as the No. 2, while rookie Cade Klubnik is also in the mix after being drafted, leaving New York with a room that has some experience but not much clarity beyond the starter.
One name drawing attention is Will Levis, who is stuck lower on the Tennessee depth chart and entering the final year of team control. He has starting experience, which is part of what makes him an intriguing fit for a team still weighing its quarterback insurance, even if no trade or roster move has been made and the situation remains one to watch as the Jets sort out their options. [Read more 🡒]
Jets May Have Finally Unlocked Will McDonalds Best Value
Will McDonalds future with the Jets is already sorted for at least one more season, and the teams decision to pick up his fifth-year option shows it still sees real value in his pass-rush burst. Since arriving, McDonald has looked the part when it comes to getting after the quarterback, even if his all-around game has been uneven enough to keep his role from feeling settled.
The interesting part now is how New York chooses to use him. With more depth around the defensive line, the Jets may have a chance to trim his workload and put him in more obvious passing situations, where his strengths can show up more often and his weaknesses can be sheltered a bit. If that happens, McDonald could wind up being more than just a talented edge player, but the cleaner, more efficient piece this defense has been waiting to unlock. [Read more 🡒]