While fans await key decisions on the New York Jets’ next head coach and general manager, the team has made a noteworthy roster move.
On Friday, January 17, the Jets announced via social media that they have signed wide receiver Ontaria “Pokey” Wilson to a Reserve/Future contract.
> We have signed WR Ontaria “Pokey” Wilson to a Reserve/Future contract.
— New York Jets (@nyjets) January 17, 2025
Jets Explore a Promising Talent
Wilson, 25, entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent out of Florida State in 2023. After spending the offseason with the Los Angeles Chargers, he was released ahead of final roster cuts.
Most recently, Wilson played for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in the Canadian Football League, where he showcased his skills.
> “He caught 71 passes for 1,026 yards and 3 touchdowns in 2024 for the Blue Bombers,” the Jets said in a press release.
The Blue Bombers released Wilson on January 9 to give him the chance to pursue NFL opportunities, as reported by Jets insider Ethan Greenberg.
Wilson also shares a connection with Jets quarterback Jordan Travis, his teammate during their time at Florida State. From 2018 to 2022, Wilson recorded 108 receptions for 1,521 yards and 12 touchdowns while playing alongside Travis.
Travis: The Jets’ Unknown QB Wildcard
The quarterback situation for the Jets in 2025 remains uncertain.
Veteran Tyrod Taylor is expected to serve as at least a backup, with an outside chance of becoming the starter if Aaron Rodgers retires or Taylor outperforms other candidates in camp.
The wildcard in the group is Travis, 24, who could find himself competing for several roles: developmental QB3, backup QB2, or even a roster spot. However, there’s also a possibility he doesn’t make the final 53-man roster.
Drafted in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL Draft (No. 171 overall), Travis missed his rookie season after being placed on the Non-Football Injury (NFI) list. He suffered a severe ankle fracture at the end of his final college season, which significantly lowered his draft stock. Early projections suggested Travis would be ready for his rookie training camp, but setbacks in his recovery sidelined him for the entire year.
Complicating matters further, the Jets’ incoming coaching and front-office staff will have no ties to Travis, unlike the previous regime that drafted him. This new leadership team will need to be convinced of his potential for him to secure a spot on the roster.
Despite these challenges, Travis has shown talent throughout his career. At Florida State, he amassed 8,715 passing yards, a 66-to-20 touchdown-to-interception ratio, and a 62% completion rate.
While his path to making an impact with the Jets is steep, Travis is no stranger to overcoming obstacles in his football journey.
