Lindenhurst native makes NFL dreams come true, starts training with Jets

A Lindenhurst native is finally suiting up for Gang Green.
Jeremy Ruckert had to sit out all of minicamp and the first week and half of training camp with a foot injury, but he is finally ready to make his NFL dreams come true as a member of the New York Jets.
"This was my first time being hurt, so it was a big learning curve from the start with the rehab," Ruckert says. "But like I said, I just tried to look at the positives throughout the whole thing."
The rookie third-round draft pick will have to get used to the physicality and competition of the game.
"Love his movement, love his enthusiasm," says Jets head coach Robert Saleh. "He's everything we thought he would be. Now it's just a matter of him catching up to the playbook and play without thought."
Ruckert says the veteran tight ends on the team have been helpful by offering him advice. He is working with the Jets special teams group and trying to build trust with the quarterbacks.
"We have a good group of guys, veterans and talented people who know what they are doing," Ruckert says. "I'm trying to get with them, make sure they are seeing what they need and that I'm in the right place for them."
Ruckert says he loves suiting up for his favorite team as a child. He is expected to play his first game as a Jet next month.
Ruckert's father says he's the one handling the ticket requests and for opening day, the Ruckert tailgate party has over 100 guests.
Newfield High School graduate Eli Riley also signed with the team in 2021.