Ever wondered what would happen when you are at the peak of your game, dreams within the reach of your arm’s length, and then everything changes in a blink? The adrenaline of the field, the roar of the fans, the jersey that you wore for your entire life—all of it can disappear in a click. Now, look out for the journey of Jordan Travis; you get a glimpse of your imagination. After making waves with a stunning career at Florida State and getting drafted by the dream team, he encountered an unexpected turn. Curious what happened? You should be. Buckle up; we are taking you up for a bumpy ride on his life’s journey.
Real Reason Behind Jordan Travis’ Early Retirement
Travis, the 2023 ACC player of the year and Florida State’s golden boy, has officially closed his chapter in his football career. Well, it’s majorly not by choice but due to his circumstances. He has a catastrophic leg injury that refuses to let go.
“On November 18, 2023, my life took an unexpected turn. I gave everything I had to the rehab process but despite all my efforts, my leg never responded the way we hoped. 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,” said Travis.
Former #FSU QB Jordan Travis announced his retirement from football today due to injury.
More: https://t.co/n7iGPz3GU0 pic.twitter.com/ACMClTsJND
— Warchant.com (@Warchant) April 30, 2025
He was drafted by the New York Jets. And to this injury, the general manager of the Jets, Darren Mougey, said, “Jordan has informed us of his intent to retire due to the injury he sustained while at Florida State. 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.”
The 24-year-old was considered one of the most dynamic dual-threat quarterbacks and was projected to enter the 2025 NFL Draft as a fifth-round pick by the Jets. But the brutal tackle cut short his season in November 2024. His heart was solely in the game, but his angle said no.
Travis’s Career in the New York Jets
Travis’s career with the New York Jets was more like what could have been and like a tale that got lost in dreams. He was certainly viewed as a potential future star by many. For instance, the former head coach of the Jets mentioned him as “kind of a ball of clay” with the capability of succeeding Aaron Rodgers. But the clock ran out even before he could play a single game with the Jets. Due to a sustained severe leg injury of jersey no. 13, he spent most of his season on the reserve/non-football injury list. However, despite extensive efforts in the rehab, medical experts recommended an early retirement. Though his time in the NFL will be marked by determination and courage.
How Much Did Jordan Travis Earn in His Career?
Travis might have had a short-spanned professional career, but his earnings certainly depict his credibility on the gridiron. After being drafted by the New York Jets in 2024, he signed a contract worth $4.27 million, including a $254,276 signing bonus. However, due to his early retirement in 2025, no further details were publicly disclosed regarding the amount he would receive thereafter.
But on the other hand, it’s worth noting that his earnings were not limited to the league. He was a top NIL athlete who could only be matched by a few names. He has landed significant endorsement deals, including inking a deal with Barstool Sports and Campus, and joining forces with NextGen Camps, Hotel Indigo, and Tallahassee Ford to secure endorsements.
His marketability is undeniable. According to On3’s valuation, Travis’ NIL deal is worth a staggering $1.2 million, placing him at an impressive No. 12 in the On3 NIL 100 ranking. Such astonishing deals at such an early age. Just imagine what could have been the case if he could have stayed on the field for longer. But fate has its own way of dealing, leading Travis to walk away from both on and off the field.
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