The Jets are releasing wide receiver and return man Xavier Gipson.
It was somewhat surprising that Gipson made the initial 53 man roster to begin with. Many around the team figured he would be cut. However, he momentarily held onto a spot on the team and started 2025 as the return man.
It was short lived, however, as his costly fumble in the second half apparently
has led the Jets to make a change. It is also worth noting that earlier in the game, Gipson appeared to put the ball on the ground when it appeared he had not been touched down. Marcelino McCrary-Ball smartly dove on the ball to ensure the Jets retained possession. It stands to reason that mental error by Gipson also factored into the decision.
Gipson was the hero of his first career game in the NFL. His overtime punt return for a touchdown in Week 1 of 2023 won a game against the Buffalo Bills. Since that shining moment, however, Gipson has been far less successful. His fumble on Sunday was the 10th on special teams of a career that spans two years and a game. He also hasn’t developed much as a receiver.
We will see who takes over the return role in Week 2 against the Buffalo Bills.
