Grades and analysis for the NY Jets star-studded 2022 NFL Draft class

Round 3, 101st overall, NY Jets: Jeremy Ruckert, TE, Ohio State

This is yet another situation where the Jets prioritized talent and building around their young quarterback over need. Generally speaking, that's typically a better draft strategy.

The Jets didn't need to draft a tight end in the third round. After signing C.J. Uzomah and Tyler Conklin in free agency, the Jets already boasted two starting-caliber tight ends on their roster.

But once again, the Jets weren't thinking about that. They were looking at value, future need, and providing their young QB with as talented of a supporting cast as possible. That's why Jeremy Ruckert was the pick at 101.

A Long Island native, Ruckert's production won't wow anyone. He never managed more than 350 yards in a season at Ohio State and finished his career with just 54 catches in 47 games.

He's a classic example of a player who got lost in the shuffle in a loaded Ohio State offense, much like the likes of Michael Thomas and Terry McLaurin had in the past. Ruckert is hoping to maximize his potential in the NFL much as those two have.

At 6-foot-5, 252 pounds, Ruckert has an NFL-ready frame with good athleticism, more-than-serviceable in-line blocking skills, and an outstanding catch radius.

He's still a work in progress, but he's also someone who's just beginning to scratch the surface of his potential. Ruckert was my second favorite tight end in this class behind Trey McBride, so landing him at this spot is a steal for the Jets in my mind.

Neither Uzomah nor Conklin is a long-term solution, and given the former's lengthy injury history, adding more depth at a crucial position in Mike LaFleur's offense is never a bad thing.

Jeremy Ruckert could develop into one of the best players from this Jets draft class.

Grade: B+