Jets’ Jordan Travis Retires Without Playing a Snap Due to FSU Injury

Former Florida State star Jordan Travis has announced his retirement from football before playing a single NFL snap, citing medical advice following his devastating 2023 leg injury.

New York Jets quarterback Jordan Travis officially retired from football on Wednesday, bringing a premature end to a once-promising career. The 25-year-old was selected in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL Draft but never recovered fully from the catastrophic leg injury he sustained during his senior season at Florida State.

A Career Cut Short

Travis suffered a fractured and dislocated left ankle on Nov. 18, 2023, during a scramble against North Alabama. The injury not only ended his college career but became a defining moment in the season, sparking controversy as the undefeated Seminoles were left out of the College Football Playoff.

“After much prayer and consultation with my doctors and medical team, I have been medically advised to retire from the game I love so deeply,” Travis said in a statement. “My leg never responded the way we hoped.”

Jets Knew the Risk

Despite his injury, the Jets took a chance on Travis with the 171st overall pick, hoping he might recover in time to eventually compete for a future starting role behind Aaron Rodgers. However, Travis never practiced and remained on the non-football injury list throughout the year.

General manager Darren Mougey acknowledged the retirement, stating: “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.”

Controversy Over Rehab

In March, Travis’ agent Deiric Jackson criticized the Jets for pushing an overly aggressive rehab timeline: “They tried to rush him… That caused the setback,” he told ESPN. The Jets responded by saying they followed the plan outlined by orthopedic specialist Dr. Robert Anderson.

Depth Chart Moving Forward

With Travis gone, the Jets’ quarterback depth chart includes Justin Fields, veteran Tyrod Taylor, and practice squad option Adrian Martinez. Undrafted rookie Brady Cook has also joined the team.

College Legacy

Jordan Travis leaves behind an impressive college résumé: a 28–10 record as a starter at Florida State, 64% completion rate, 20 touchdowns to just 2 interceptions in 2023, and a fifth-place finish in Heisman Trophy voting. His leadership helped FSU to an 11-0 season before his injury.

“Not the Ending I Imagined”

In a heartfelt social media post, Travis thanked the Jets and expressed peace with the decision: “This is not the ending I had ever imagined, but I do trust The Lord’s plan above all else.”

Jordan Travis may never have reached the NFL field, but his resilience and talent left a lasting mark on college football and the hearts of Seminole fans everywhere.