Create the classic “Y” tight end in a factory and Ruckert will pop out. Following a career at Ohio State where he was in an offense stacked with wide receiver talent that limited his opportunities, the New York native returned home to the team he grew up rooting for as a third round pick in the 2022 Draft. He entered a room with two veterans (Tyler Conklin and CJ Uzomah) which kept him off the field for most of the season. He did take over the number two role in 2023 but Conklin was a focal point to the passing game, finishing as the team’s second leading receiver. Last year was a similar result, as Ruckert struggled to take the leap in production and impact. His 5.8 yards per catch were the lowest in the NFL among tight ends with over 22 targets while adding a drop rate higher than all players at the position besides rookie Theo Johnson. For a heavy footed underwhelming athlete, Ruckert’s impact as a blocker has also been lackluster.
Taylor was drafted by the new regime this past April in round two. This was a player I had in my Preseason Top 32 a year ago and while he lacks explosive traits, he tested better than Ruckert at the same size. He also has youth on his side. Taylor, who also was teamed up with future star receivers in college, was a more consistent pass catcher in college. He left LSU as the program’s all time leader in receptions by a tight end. With the new Jets offense likely to be run-heavy, a tight end that offers upside as both a pass catcher and blocker will be paramount.
Prediction: Taylor
The unknown of Taylor is likely to trump what the team already knows about Ruckert. Both are similar-styled tight ends but Taylor is the one with youth on his side and there is more pop with his movement traits. After watching what Sam LaPorta did for the Detroit offense as a rookie in 2023, where Jets Offensive Coordinator Tanner Engstrand was on staff, all signs point toward Taylor being the guy right away with Ruckert once again sitting in a backup role.