The Battle for the Big Apple is on and it's being waged … virtually? That's right. The New York Jets and Giants, who share a home in East Rutherford, find themselves mired in a tricky love triangle. The object of both teams' affection is top-ranked Michigan center Cesar Ruiz, who many consider the top interior lineman available in the upcoming NFL Draft.
The G-Men and Gang Green aren't alone in their pursuit of Ruiz, who is slated for virtual sit-downs (meeting in person isn't an option with COVID-19 restricting travel across the country) with both teams in the coming days, according to The Draft Network's Jordan Reid. Ruiz has already met with upwards of 20 teams, suggesting the 6'3," 307-pounder will be a hot commodity when the draft begins in less than three weeks. The second-team All-Big Ten selection has ties to the area, hailing from Camden, New Jersey. Ruiz starred at Camden High, just a short voyage down I-95 from MetLife Stadium, before transferring to IMG Academy in Florida for his final two high-school seasons. Considered a four-star recruit, Ruiz shipped up to Michigan to join forces with Jim Harbaugh, choosing the Wolverines over offers from Auburn, Florida and LSU.
It's easy to see why the Jets and Giants would be enamored with Ruiz, a versatile talent who shifted between center and guard during his time in Ann Arbor. The 20-year-old solidified his early-round status by excelling at the Combine in Indianapolis, testing through the roof with a 5.08 forty and 28 reps on the bench press. Offensive line depth is an area of need for both New York franchises, particularly the Jets, who yielded an embarrassing 52 sacks (fourth-most) last season. Neither of the team's young quarterbacks—Jets signal-caller Sam Darnold and Daniel Jones of the Giants—stand much chance at long-term success without better protection. Ruiz, who didn't allow a sack as a junior last year, could certainly help in that respect.
