Travis Hangs Up His Cleats

Jordan Travis, the backup quarterback for the New York Jets, has officially decided to retire from professional football without playing a single snap in the NFL. This announcement comes following a severe leg injury he sustained during his time at Florida State University.

On November 18, 2023, Travis suffered a fractured and dislocated left ankle in a game against North Alabama, which ultimately led to complications and subsequent surgeries. In a recent statement, Travis expressed his disappointment, stating, “I gave everything I had to the rehab process but despite all my efforts, my leg never responded the way we hoped.” He made this difficult decision after consulting with medical professionals.

The Jets’ Investment

The Jets selected Travis in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL Draft, recognizing his potential despite the ongoing rehabilitation challenges. With initial hopes that he could return to practice, Travis spent the entire last season on the non-football injury list, leading to speculation about his future with the team.

General Manager Darren Mougey, who took over after Travis was drafted, offered support following the retirement announcement. “It is unfortunate that he was unable to get back on the field after working so hard. We support his decision and wish him only the best,” he said.

Controversy Surrounding Rehabilitation

In March, Travis’ agent, Deiric Jackson, raised concerns about the rehabilitation process with the Jets, suggesting it was rushed and contributed to Travis’s setback. “His rehab with the Jets was not the best. They tried to rush him,” Jackson stated, emphasizing that the pressure on the coaching staff resulted in the need for Travis to shut down completely.

Despite Jackson’s concerns, the Jets insisted they adhered to the protocols set by Dr. Robert Anderson, the surgeon overseeing Travis’s recovery. Initially, Jackson remained optimistic about Travis’s potential return for the 2025 season.

Looking Ahead

The Jets currently find themselves in a transition phase at quarterback, led by Justin Fields and Tyrod Taylor. Following Travis’s departure, the depth chart also includes Adrian Martinez and newly signed undrafted free agent Brady Cook.

Travis’s journey in college football was marked by impressive performances, including a completion rate of 64% and 20 touchdown passes during the 2023 season, earning him a fifth-place finish in the Heisman Trophy voting.

In his farewell message, Travis expressed gratitude towards the Jets for the opportunity to chase his dreams: “It is crazy how fast life can change. This is not the ending I had ever imagined, but I do trust the Lord’s plan above all else.”