Film Watched: Minnesota 2021, Indiana 2021, Northwestern 2020
Pro's:
Big, strong tight end with a chiseled physique
Stout lower half that makes him extremely effective in pass protection
Impressive blocking technique; understands responsibilities & demonstrates correct hand placement
Natural pass catcher with some highlight reel grabs on his resume
Tough competitor with the ball in the air and knows how to box out defenders from the catch point
Versatile and was utilised in different ways at Ohio State – inline, slot, h-back and fullback
Con's:
A lot of work to do on route running – sluggish in and out of breaks, limiting separation
Some stiffness in his hips, and gears down to change direction
Top speed underwhelming – linebackers will chase him down
Yards after the catch minimal on anything other than vertical routes
Lack of production in college career; just 600 yards and 12 TD’s in 30 games at Ohio State
The Verdict:
“As is often the case with Buckeye tight ends, Jeremy Ruckert enters the NFL with a resume that is light on stats but a skillset that suggests he’s primed for a better NFL career than his collegiate one. Scouts will be intrigued by his measurables, and he doesn’t just look the part in that regard - Ruckert has the play strength and demeanor to be a tough customer when he’s not getting the football. As a pass catcher, he has shown he can reel in anything thrown his way, and he can do it from a range of alignments too. But his lack of agility and rusty route running does leave you wondering if his athleticism has been maxed out or can be improved. That’s the difference between a high and a low ceiling, and will polarise opinion. But one team will definitely think there’s value to be had with a day two selection.”
PREVIOUSLY THE FOUNDER OF NFL DRAFT UK, SIMON HAS BEEN COVERING COLLEGE FOOTBALL AND THE NFL DRAFT SINCE 2009. BASED IN MANCHESTER, SIMON IS ALSO CO-CREATOR & WEEKLY GUEST OF THE COLLAPSING POCKET PODCAST.