Blake Bortles last played in an NFL game in 2019, signing with four different teams since that last appearance. Even though he's only 30 years old, Bortles has decided to hang up his cleats, announcing his retirement on the Pardon My Take podcast. It marks the end of a career that had plenty of ups and downs.
The Journey of Blake Bortles in the NFL
Drafted third overall in the 2014 NFL Draft, Blake Bortles began his journey with high expectations. He signed a four-year contract worth $20.6 million guaranteed, marking the start of what many hoped would be a stellar career. Unfortunately, Bortles faced challenges early on, struggling in his rookie year but showing improvement in subsequent seasons.
In 2017, Bortles led the Jacksonville Jaguars to their first playoff appearance in a decade. With a record of 10-6, the team won the AFC South and made an impressive run to the AFC Championship game. This was a high point in Bortles' career, showcasing his potential as a starting quarterback.
Highs and Lows of Bortles' Career
Throughout his time in the league, Bortles experienced significant highs and lows. While he ended his career with a record of 24-49 as a starter, his performance was often overshadowed by team struggles. Despite this, he achieved notable milestones, including throwing for a career-high 4,428 yards in 2015 and leading the Jaguars to the playoffs.
After the Jaguars released him in 2019, Bortles signed with the Los Angeles Rams, serving as a backup. His playing time dwindled, only attempting a few passes in his last official season. This transition underscores the unpredictable nature of an NFL career, where a player's trajectory can change rapidly.
Financial Impact and Earnings
Over his eight-year career in the NFL, Bortles earned approximately $48 million. This equates to around $615,385 per game, highlighting the financial rewards that come with being an NFL quarterback. His rookie contract provided a substantial financial foundation, but subsequent contracts were less lucrative as his performance fluctuated.
Contract Details and Financial Growth
After his initial contract, Bortles received a three-year deal worth $54 million in 2018. However, he played only a fraction of that contract before being released. This emphasizes the harsh reality many athletes face in professional sports, where performance directly influences job security and earnings.
- Rookie contract: $20.6 million (4 years)
- Three-year extension: $54 million (only partially earned)
- Total career earnings: $48 million
Blake Bortles' Legacy in the NFL
Despite the ups and downs, Blake Bortles leaves a unique legacy in the NFL. He is the Jaguars' franchise leader in several categories, including most passing touchdowns in a game and most pass completions in a season. These records reflect his contributions to the team and the impact he had during his tenure.
As he retires, he leaves behind a mixed but memorable career. Fans will remember the thrilling moments, especially the playoff run in 2017, and the challenges he overcame as a quarterback. His story serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of sports, where success often comes with setbacks.
Final Thoughts on Bortles' Career
In the end, Bortles retires with both his health and a significant amount of money. This is not a bad deal for someone who navigated the competitive landscape of the NFL. As he moves on to the next chapter of his life, fans and analysts alike will reflect on the lessons learned from his journey.
The story of Blake Bortles encourages aspiring athletes to persevere through challenges and embrace the journey, regardless of the outcome. His experiences highlight the importance of resilience in achieving one's goals, both on and off the field.
