New York Jets' backup quarterback Jordan Travis never retired from football after playing in the NFL.

Travis, who suffered a horrible leg injury while playing for then-unparalleled Florida in 2023, announced Wednesday that his left leg repaired had not yet fully recovered and he decided to walk away as recommended by his doctor.

"On November 18, 2023, my life changed unexpectedly," Travis said in a statement. "I gave everything in the healing process, but despite all the effort, my legs never responded the way we wanted. After a lot of prayers and consultations with doctors, medical experts and my agents, I was medically advised to retire from the game I like."

The Jets chose Travis in the fifth round of the 2024 draft (No. 171). They knew he was facing continued recovery, but because of his advantage, they thought it was worth the risk. Initially, hoped he would be cleared at some point in practice, but this never happened. He has been on the non-football injury list all season.

General manager Darren Mougey declined to comment at the end of last weekend's draft when Travis was drafted, when he was asked about the health of the quarterback.

"Jordan told us that his intention was to retire due to the injuries he suffered in Florida," Muji said in a statement Wednesday. "Unfortunately, he was unable to return to the court after working so hard. We support his decision and wish him all the best."

It is not clear whether the Jets know about Travis’ retirement plan during the draft. They chose not to choose quarterback. Their current depth map is led by Justin Fields and Tyrod Taylor. After them, they have 2024 practice team player Adrian Martinez. Former Missouri quarterback Brady Cook has agreed to a contract as an undrafted free agent.

In early March, Travis agent Deiric Jackson, who was critical of the jet, told ESPN: "His recovery with the jet is not the best. They tried to hurry him up. It was too fast. It was too fast. It was too fast. The coaches were under too much pressure and they tried to get him to have a faster time than the schedule, which caused a setback. We had to shut him down completely."

He refused to specify the nature of the setback. The Jets said they followed a rehabilitation protocol prescribed by Travis surgeon Robert Anderson, orthopedic. Jackson said in an interview with ESPN that he is "optimistic" and that Travis will be ready for the 2025 season.

In a handwritten statement posted to social media, Travis thanked the Jet for “believe me and gave me the opportunity to realize my ultimate dream.”

Travis also wrote: "How fast can life change. It's not the ending I imagined, but I do believe in the Lord's plan."

His football career ended with a fight against North Alabama. On a noticeable hip-hop tackle, he landed awkwardly, fractured and dislocated left ankle. A few weeks later, this sparked controversy. Despite the unbeaten season, Florida State was excluded from the college football playoffs.

Travis completed 64% of the passes with 20 touchdown passes, ranking fifth in Heisman Trophy voting with just 2 interceptions while leading Seminoles to an 11-0 record. He started his career in Louisville, moved to Florida and set a 28-10 starting record.

Travis, after being drafted by the Jets, said his goal was to succeed Aaron Rodgers one day.

"I did think a lot," he said.