Jordan Travis, the 2024 NFL Draft pick for the New York Jets, has boldly declared himself as the successor to Aaron Rodgers and sees himself as the future starting quarterback for the team.
The standout quarterback from Florida State University made a splash in the draft when he was picked by the Jets in the fifth round, thanks to a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles. His college career saw him bag awards such as ACC Player of the Year and ACC Offensive Player of the Year in 2023, solidifying his status as a top talent in college football.
Travis's draft stock was initially higher, but concerns about his size and a previous season-ending injury, a broken leg, led to his slide down the draft board. Despite these setbacks, the Jets saw potential in Travis, appreciating his mobility and creativity on the field, traits that served him well during his time at Florida State.
While Travis may start his NFL journey as a backup and developmental option for the Jets, his selection in the fifth round is a clear sign of the team's faith in his potential. They see him as a valuable addition to their quarterback depth chart.
However, Travis himself envisions a different future, seeing himself as the successor to the 40-year-old Super Bowl champion and MVP.
"Yes, sir, I do think about that a lot," Travis said on his future as part of the team's minicamp. "But right now, I'm just focused on where my feet are, just getting healthy and getting everybody around me better, being a great teammate."
Over the course of his career, the possibility of retirement has been a constant topic of discussion surrounding Jets' quarterback Rodgers. He hinted at retiring before he was traded to the Jets in early 2023 but also suggested he may play for another two to four seasons, taking him well into his 40s.
Following the 2022 season, he revealed his need for some quiet contemplation at a secluded retreat to decide his future commitment to the forthcoming season. During an appearance on the Look Into It Podcast with Eddie Bravo, Rodgers gave fans reason to hope, expressing desire to play for "2, 3, or 4 more years."
However, the star NFL player emphasised the role of good fortune in boosting a sportsman's longevity. Looking back at his fitness levels, the quarterback acknowledged that while he didn't hit peak speed numbers during late-season practice, there's room for optimism because his rehabilitation is going well.
Rodgers' absence from the Jets lineup was significant, with a torn Achilles sidelining him for the year during last year's season opener against the Buffalo Bills. To bolster their quarterback depth, especially after trading away Zach Wilson to the Denver Broncos, the Jets drafted Travis.
Wilson's departure also saw the Jets agree to cover his salary in exchange for a 2024 sixth-round pick and a seventh-round pick, incentivizing the Broncos to take on the struggling quarterback. New York's QB depth chart currently features Rodgers, Tyrod Taylor, Travis, and West Florida rookie Peewee Jarrett.