Wesley Kirchharr
Sports Editor
The New York Jets of the National Football League (NFL) have signed former Troy quarterback Brandon Silvers.
The Jets announced the acquisition on April, 10.
After finishing his time with the Trojans, Silvers went to play for the Memphis Express, a football program in the Alliance of American Football (AAF).
During four years as a signal caller for Troy, Silvers posted 10,677 yards through the air with 79 touchdowns. Silvers also posted 29 interceptions, all while completing 64 percent of his attempts.
Silvers, who went undrafted after leaving Troy, participated in a rookie minicamp for the New Orleans Saints, but was never signed by the program.
The 6’3” 220 pounder joins a Jets locker room under starting quarterback Sam Darnold, who is entering his sophomore season.
The call-up came after Silvers led Memphis to a come-from-behind win in overtime against the Birmingham Iron. Silvers threw for 266 yards and tacked on two scores late to force the AAF’s first overtime game.
“I was the backup for the first two games, then got hurt just on the off-field throwing to some tryout guys,” Silvers said. “Really, last week was the first time I got back into practice and this week was really the (first) time I’ve had full practice (since week three). So today was really good.”
Following the win, he 24-year-old received praise from regular starter, Johnny Manziel.
“What a job by Brandon Silvers,” said the former Heisman winner, who added 48 yards through the air. “He earned every single thing he got tonight. I’m proud of him. Clutch, with all the pressure on, we came back and won this game and that’s all that matters.”
Silvers will likely be battling Davis Webb for the No. 3 quarterback slot in New York.
