NFL rookie Jordan Travis has been selected as the 5th round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft by the Jets. Despite suffering a career-threatening injury during his final season at Florida State, the 24-year-old remains eager, seeing this significant step as a dream come true.
Travis’ Stellar College Football Journey
Prior to his unexpected injury, Travis entertained spectators with his impressive performance at Florida State. Over five seasons, he threw for 8,644 yards, 66 touchdowns, and 22 interceptions, and rushed for 1,910 yards and 31 TDs. His finest season came in 2023 when he led the Seminoles to their first ACC Championship in a decade and placed fifth in the Heisman voting.
However, a life-altering leg injury sidelined Travis during a game against North Alabama. Despite the setback, he maintains a positive outlook and acknowledges the support of his loved ones. “My family, my friends, they push me every single day. They inspire me to be better”, he said.
From Raw Talent to Trusted NFL Choice
Travis entered coach Mike Norvell’s program at Florida State as a promising yet raw quarterback. Eventually, he emerged as one of the nation’s most accurate passers, excelling in short and intermediate passing and play-action. Renowned for his swift decision-making and lightning-quick release, Jets general manager Joe Douglas had only praise for Travis’ skills and character.
“Jordan is a special guy, you can see why teammates gravitate towards him and why he’s one of the more respected guys when you talk to other players at Florida State,” commented Douglas.
A Fresh Start with the Jets
For the 2024 season, Travis will have the opportunity to learn from quarterbacks Aaron Rodgers and Tyrod Taylor at the Jets. However, with Rodgers recovering from a severe injury and Taylor holding a lengthy injury history, Travis himself may be called upon sooner than expected.
The Jets organization and coach Robert Saleh appear enthusiastic about the addition of Travis to their roster. Even though Travis will not participate in the Jets rookie minicamp due to ongoing rehabilitation, he is expected to be cleared for training camp in late July.
“There’s a lot of excitement with regards to that,” said Saleh of Travis’ potential.
Travis’s Ongoing Rehabilitation
The recovery process has seen Travis undertake various movement exercises and weights-based rehabilitation, including squats. While unable to take part in intense football drills, Travis shared his progress and enthusiasm for his upcoming NFL journey.
“I feel great,” Travis said. “Just focusing on rehab and doing my best and just trying to get ready as fast as possible, that’s the goal. Just try to get 100% and get better every day.”
Looking Ahead
There is a tangible sense of excitement regarding Travis’s potential. Despite the challenges he has already faced, the young quarterback shows an unwavering determination to make the most of the opportunity that lies ahead.
Whether Travis might eventually become Rodgers’ successor in a somewhat unpredictable environment remains to be seen. But for now, the rookie is focused on his recovery and the opportunity to learn, develop, and demonstrate his ability.