NFL Draft 2022: New York Giants’ top Day 2 targets
By David Solow
Jeremy Ruckert- Ohio State, TE
Why would he be a good value pick for the New York Giants at #79?
Ruckert was a secondary option behind guys like Chris Olave and Garrett Wilson, but he has demonstrated all the skills necessary to be a starting caliber NFL tight end. Even though he received a low number of targets for the Buckeyes, he always made the best of his opportunities, scoring 12 touchdowns with just 54 career receptions.
If Ruckert played in an offense with less dynamic receivers, he could have put up much better stats and would likely be viewed much differently heading into the draft. Ruckert has great size, excellent hands, can make contested catches, and is an above average blocker for the position.
How would he fit with the NY Giants?
After the release of Kyle Rudolph and the likely free agent departure of Evan Engram, tight end is one of Big Blue’s most pressing needs. With holes at more important positions (like right tackle and edge rusher), the GMEN can’t afford to use one of their early picks on a tight end.
Fortunately for Joe Schoen, there are several startling caliber tight ends (like Ruckert) that could be had at the end of the third round. Ruckert, a Long Island native, could end up starting for his hometown team right away.
NFL Combine Stats: Stock Up or Stock Down
HEIGHT: 6′ 5″
WEIGHT: 250 lbs
ARMS: 32 3/4″
HANDS: 10 1/8″
Bench Press: 19 reps
Stock Down- Ruckert’s stock is down because of a minor foot injury he suffered during a Senior Bowl practice. The injury prevented him from running at the combine. Hopefully for Big Blue, this causes him to slip a bit to the Giants in the third or 4th round.
New York Giants Player Comparison: Jake Ballard
Ruckert won’t make many explosive plays like Travis Kelce, but he could be a winning player like Jake Ballard for the Giants. Ruckert makes tough catches in traffic like Ballard did, and is a reliable player that Daniel Jones would be able to depend on.