Jets' fan-favorite tight end not practicing, 'dealing with a few things'

The New York Jets returned to practice on Monday in Florham Park without third-year tight end Jeremy Ruckert.

The Long Island-born Ruckert was one of 28 players inactive for this past Saturday's preseason opener against the Washington Commanders . Jets' fourth-year head coach Robert Saleh did not provide specifics, but projected the tight end to miss multiple days this week.

"Ruckert's dealing with a few things, so he'll be out for another couple days," said Saleh.

It's unknown whether the player is dealing with multiple injuries or personal matters. Meanwhile, New York signed an additional tight end to its 90-man roster on Sunday, agreeing to terms with undrafted rookie Neal Johnson , who was recently released by the Los Angeles Rams.

Ruckert, the No. 101 overall selection in the 2022 NFL Draft, is looking to take a leap in Year 3 with his hometown team. He made 15 appearances in 2023, totaling 151 receiving yards on 16 catches.

"Just playing faster, being more consistent. I think I showed flashes of doing some really good things, but then, other plays, kind of let the little things get away from me, " said Ruckert in an interview with team reporter Caroline Hendershot this past June.

The Jets are scheduled to practice on Tuesday and Wednesday in Florham Park before heading to the Carolina Panthers' facility for a joint session on Thursday .

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