New York Jets quarterback Jordan Travis is retiring from the NFL at age 24, he announced Wednesday.
Travis’ decision comes after he spent his rookie season recovering from a catastrophic left leg injury he suffered during his final college game at Florida State.
‘I gave everything I had to the rehab process but despite all my efforts, my leg never responded the way we hoped,’ Travis explained in a handwritten message posted to social media. ‘After much prayer and consultation with the doctors, medical experts and my agent, I’ve been medically advised to retire from the game I love so deeply.’
Travis played six college seasons at Louisville and Florida State and was key in the Seminoles’ undefeated regular season in 2023. He completed 63.9% of his passes for 2,756 yards, 20 touchdowns and just two interceptions before he suffered what turned into a career-ending injury.
Travis finished fifth in the Heisman Trophy voting and was still viewed as a potential-packed Day 3 quarterback prospect. The Jets spent a fifth-round pick (171st overall) on the Florida State product hoping he would recover from the injury and eventually play a role in their quarterback room.
‘It is unfortunate that he was unable to get back on the field after working so hard,’ Jets general manager Darren Mougey said of Travis in a statement. ‘We support his decision and wish him only the best.’
Travis’ retirement leaves New York with four quarterbacks on its roster: Justin Fields, Tyrod Taylor, Adrian Martinez and recent undrafted rookie signing Brady Cook.
As for Travis, he is leaving the sport grateful to be given a chance to try to make his NFL dream come true.
‘As I reflect on my journey, I am overwhelmed with gratitude,’ he wrote. ‘From having the opportunity to live out my dream at Florida State University to hearing my name called in the NFL Draft. I am incredibly thankful for everyone who has poured into me throughout my life and career.’
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