Learn about Blake Bortles, the former NFL quarterback, his rise to fame, struggles, and ultimate legacy in the world of football. Discover key moments and career highlights.

Blake Bortles: The Rise, Fall, and Legacy of the Former NFL Quarterback

Blake Bortles, once a promising young quarterback, made his mark in the NFL with a career that was as unpredictable as it was fascinating. From his college days to his time in the NFL, Bortles experienced the highs of being a top pick and the lows of struggling to find consistency. In this post, we’ll dive into his journey, highlighting key moments, his struggles, and the impact he left on the sport.

Blake Bortles: Early Life and College Career

Blake Bortles’ story began long before he was drafted into the NFL. Born on April 28, 1992, in Oviedo, Florida, Bortles was passionate about football from a young age. He attended Oviedo High School, where he showcased his talents as a quarterback. However, it wasn’t until his time at the University of Central Florida (UCF) that Bortles really began to make a name for himself.

At UCF, Bortles became the starting quarterback in 2011, and over the next few years, he developed into a standout player. During his college career, Bortles led the UCF Knights to a Conference USA Championship and an appearance in the Fiesta Bowl, where he was named the game’s MVP. His performances at UCF put him on the radar of NFL scouts and paved the way for his future in the league.

The NFL Draft and Blake Bortles’ Early Career

In 2014, Blake Bortles’ hard work paid off when he was selected by the Jacksonville Jaguars with the third overall pick in the NFL Draft. The pick was seen as a gamble by many, as Bortles had shown promise but wasn’t considered as polished as some of the other top quarterbacks in the draft. Nonetheless, the Jaguars were confident that Bortles had the potential to lead their franchise to success.

Bortles’ rookie season was a rollercoaster. He started 13 games and threw for 2,908 yards, 11 touchdowns, and 17 interceptions. Although his stats weren’t spectacular, he showed flashes of brilliance that kept hope alive for the Jaguars. The team, however, struggled overall, finishing with a 3-13 record. Despite the team’s poor performance, Bortles was named the starting quarterback for the following season.

Blake Bortles’ Best Seasons with the Jaguars

After a rough start, Bortles’ performance improved significantly in his second and third seasons. In 2015, he threw for over 4,400 yards and 35 touchdowns, leading the Jaguars to a more respectable 5-11 record. His ability to throw deep passes and lead comebacks made him a fan favorite, and many believed he was on the verge of breaking out as one of the league’s top quarterbacks.

The highlight of Bortles’ career came in 2017 when he led the Jaguars to the AFC Championship game. That season, Bortles threw for 3,687 yards and 21 touchdowns, but his greatest contribution was his leadership in the playoffs. The Jaguars defeated the Buffalo Bills and Pittsburgh Steelers, with Bortles playing an instrumental role in both wins. Though they fell short to the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship, Bortles’ performance was considered a significant achievement in his career.

The Decline of Blake Bortles’ NFL Career

Despite his impressive 2017 season, things began to unravel for Blake Bortles in the following years. In 2018, his performance took a sharp decline. He struggled with consistency, throwing 13 touchdowns and 11 interceptions in 2018, and the Jaguars’ offense failed to produce at a high level. The team’s defense, once one of the best in the league, also began to falter, and the Jaguars finished with a disappointing 5-11 record.

By 2019, Bortles’ time in Jacksonville had come to an end. He was released after failing to lead the team back to playoff contention. In March 2019, Bortles signed with the Los Angeles Rams as a backup quarterback but never saw significant playing time. His stint with the Rams was brief, and by 2020, Bortles was no longer in the NFL, marking the end of his professional career.

Blake Bortles’ Legacy in the NFL

Although Blake Bortles’ career didn’t follow the trajectory many expected, his legacy in the NFL is still noteworthy. For a brief period, he was one of the most promising quarterbacks in the league. He was known for his arm strength, ability to make big plays, and his leadership on the field. His role in the Jaguars’ unexpected run to the AFC Championship game in 2017 will always be remembered by fans of the team.

While Bortles’ career may not have been as successful as some of his contemporaries, he still managed to carve out a place in NFL history. His time with the Jaguars, along with his moments of brilliance, will forever be associated with a unique era in Jacksonville’s football history. Furthermore, his ability to lead the Jaguars through some tough seasons and his rise to the AFC Championship stage demonstrates the unpredictable nature of the NFL, where players can rise to fame even amidst adversity.

Conclusion: What’s Next for Blake Bortles?

After his NFL career came to an end, Blake Bortles stepped away from the game and has kept a relatively low profile. Although he isn’t currently playing professional football, his impact on the NFL and the Jaguars’ franchise remains significant. In the years to come, Bortles may find himself in a different role in football, whether as a coach, mentor, or even working in media.

Blake Bortles’ story is one of determination, resilience, and the highs and lows of professional football. While his career may not have turned out as expected, it’s clear that he left his mark on the league and in the hearts of Jacksonville Jaguars fans.

Key Takeaways:

• Blake Bortles was drafted 3rd overall in the 2014 NFL Draft by the Jacksonville Jaguars.
• He led the Jaguars to the AFC Championship in 2017, a career highlight.
• Despite struggles in later seasons, Bortles’ early career showed promise.
• His legacy is tied to the Jaguars’ 2017 playoff run, cementing his place in franchise history.
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