In recent years, one of the most prolific symbolic adages with the Jets has been “Revis Island,” named for Darrelle Revis’ legendary shutdown ability to corral receivers.
When the likely Hall of Fame cornerback announced his retirement in Green and White Tuesday, the Jets took it a step further.
The team created a makeshift “Revis Island” scene in the hallways of their complex to mark a retirement ceremony for Revis Thursday morning.
Revis, 33, who spent eight of 11 years in the league with the Jets, officially signed a one-day contract and then marked the end to a remarkable career.
Drafted in the first round (14th overall) in the 2007 draft, Revis was a four-time All-Pro and a seven-time Pro Bowler. He has a Super Bowl ring from his time with New England in 2015 and spent the previous season in Tampa Bay. He culminated his career with an abbreviated five-game stint with Kansas City last season.
After reconstructive knee surgery and a new outlook from former general manager John Idzik, Revis was traded to Tampa Bay for a fourth-round draft pick before the 2014 season.
After his stay with the Patriots, Revis signed a five-year, $39 million deal with the Jets in 2015. However, his skills noticeably diminished in 2016 and he was released at the end of the season.
“I would’ve loved to play my whole career here and wear the green and white until I actually retired,” said Revis. “Things happen, team acquisitions coming in and a different direction the team may want to go. It happens, it really does. That’s how I sum it up. It happens.”
“It was one of the greatest joys to watch you play football,” added Jets chairman Christopher Johnson about Revis. “I was one of those able to catch a glimpse of how he prepared during the week. His maniacal film study and the attention to detail. His preparation allowed him to be a step ahead of the offense.”
Revis recalled several moments in his Jets career, still dwelling over the team’s losses in the 2009 and 2010 championship games remembering them “probably for a lifetime.”
“The assignments I had to face during my career takes a lot of toll on the body, week in and week out,” said Revis. “Every day, my purpose was to not only be the best player at my position, but be the best player on the field. That was my motivation.”
“This journey was great. I enjoyed every bit of it. I put my heart and soul into wearing the green and white.”