NFL draft: TE Jeremy Ruckert could fill a Browns need

The Cleveland Browns don’t have a lot of holes to fill but the ones they do are very important ones. Without a commitment from DE Jadeveon Clowney, despite social media engagement with Myles Garrett, edge rusher is a big need. After adding WR Amari Cooper, the Browns released WR Jarvis Landry leading to another possible need unless Landry returns.

One need that hasn’t gotten a ton of attention is at tight end. While HC Kevin Stefanski may have fewer multiple tight end sets on the field at a time, currently just Harrison Bryant is under contract after producing last year. David Njoku still has not signed his franchise tag tender or a long-term deal with the team.

Ohio State product Jeremy Ruckert is seen as one of the few tight ends in this draft who can block in-line while also providing some threat as a pass-catcher. He isn’t going to stretch the seam as much as someone like Njoku can but he does provide some of that ability as seen in this video:

Brian Baldinger does a great job of showing Ruckert’s ability as a blocker, something that would transition over to Cleveland’s offense for sure.

Ruckert wasn’t targeted a ton in the Buckeyes’ offense but still produced 12 touchdowns out of his 54 receptions.

He is projected to be drafted in the third round, where the Browns have two picks. While GM Andrew Berry won’t only be focusing on needs with his limited draft picks, after the Deshaun Watson and Cooper trades, but with bigger needs on the defensive line and receiver, a third-round tight end may not be the best use.

If Berry does use a selection on Ruckert, his presence would allow Njoku and Bryant to split out more often knowing he can come in as a rookie and help as a blocker.