NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported on Wednesday that the New York Jets have released WR Xavier Gipson.
The move comes after Gipson made a critical fumble in Sunday’s 34-32 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers in their Week 1 matchup. The Jets held a 26-24 lead when Gipson fumbled a kickoff return, which was recovered by the Steelers’ Ben Skowronek. Two plays later, the Steelers took the lead from the Jets, who had controlled play for much of the first three quarters.
Jets head coach Aaron Glenn called the fumble the turning point of the contest and said those errors wouldn’t be tolerated. On Wednesday, the first-time head coach, confirmed the news of Gipson’s release, along with announcing the signing of WR/KR Isaiah Williams in a corresponding move. Glenn said: “Decisions that’s made are not rash decisions. They’re never based off of one incident. I will keep it at that. Xavier’s a really good player, and he’s gonna play in this league, but I felt it was time to move on in another direction.”
Gipson, 24, joined the Jets as an undrafted free agent in 2023 and was active for every game in 2023-2024. Through the first 34 appearances of his NFL career, Gipson totaled 27 catches for 268 yards and also scored a rushing touchdown. He spent the majority of his snaps on special teams.
The Jets will host the Buffalo Bills on Sunday in East Rutherford, NJ.
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