Jeremy Ruckert is staying right where his football journey began-at home in Green and White. The Long Island native and lifelong Jets fan has signed a two-year extension worth $10 million, with incentives that could push the total to $11 million. For a kid who once sat in the stands as a season-ticket holder, it’s a full-circle moment that now comes with a bigger role and a bigger paycheck.
Ruckert, a third-round pick out of Ohio State (101st overall), has carved out his niche in the NFL the hard way-through grit, blocking, and patience. Early in his career, he was primarily deployed as a blocker, often flying under the radar in the passing game.
But this season, he’s started to show flashes of what he can offer as a receiving threat. With three games still left on the schedule, Ruckert has already posted career highs in both receptions (20) and receiving yards (163).
Those aren’t eye-popping numbers, but they’re a clear sign of growth and a reminder that tight ends often take time to develop in this league.
What stands out most about Ruckert’s game is his physicality. He’s not afraid to get his hands dirty in the trenches, and that makes him a valuable asset in both run and pass protection.
But the Jets are beginning to trust him more as a target, especially in short-yardage and red-zone situations. That trust could be tested even more this week.
With fellow tight end Mason Taylor sidelined last week due to a neck injury-and still appearing on the injury report-Ruckert could once again be the team’s top option at the position when they face the Saints. If so, he’ll have an opportunity to showcase the full range of his skill set against a physical New Orleans defense.
For the Jets, this extension is about more than sentimentality. It’s a smart move to lock in a young, ascending player who knows the system, fits the culture, and brings versatility to the offense. And for Ruckert, it’s a chance to keep building on a foundation that started in the stands of MetLife Stadium and now extends into the huddle.
He was born a Jet, drafted a Jet, and now, for at least two more years, he’s staying a Jet.