FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- Jeremy Ruckert has struggled through his first three seasons with the New York Jets.
Initially a third-round pick by the team in 2022, Ruckert has caught just 35 passes for over 260 yards.
For a third-round pick, that won't cut it.
Things could be changing, though. The Ohio State product watched this offseason as the Jets added his college quarterback, Justin Fields. Now, Ruckert is in an offense he is familiar with and thrilled to be with some of his old friends again.
“It’s been great,” Ruckert said during mandatory minicamp. “Anytime you get a chance to reconnect with one of your former teammates, whether it’s an old league or in college, it’s great. I’m excited about where we’re going as a team and the culture we’re setting. And I think he’s (Fields) perfect for that, for that role."
Much like Ruckert, Fields is under plenty of pressure this offseason. He is on his third team in as many years and is looking to prove he can be a quality starting quarterback.
New York has a top receiver, Garrett Wilson (another former college teammate), who will help him reach his intended potential. Ruckert should help as well. In college, he scored nine touchdowns with Fields as his quarterback.
If he can mirror that college success this year, the Jets may be thrilled with their idea to have an Ohio State reunion on the offensive side of the ball.
That will be up to questionable starters like Ruckert and Fields, though.