When Wednesday rolled around, the New York Jets announced they were cutting Xavier Gipson. This move was announced just one week after his game-clinching fumble in their season opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Gipson quickly earned himself a reputation as the team’s top punt returner. His ride was an impressive one after coming into the NFL as a rookie undrafted free agent back in 2023. He had already beaten out rookie Jamaal Pritchett for the punt return job in training camp.
In the Jets’ narrow 34-32 defeat to the Steelers, Gipson’s fumble proved to be a significant turning point in the game. With the team during his two-plus season tenure, he had issues with ball security, fumbling ten times as a member of the Ravens in several different capacities. Jets coach Aaron Glenn made it clear that cutting Gipson wasn’t a knee-jerk move. He praised the decision for considering broader factors.
“You will not be on the field with this team if you’re going to cause us to lose games, if you’re going to cause issues like that,” Glenn stated, highlighting the team’s commitment to performance and accountability. He keynoted that a lot went into the decision. It was more than just the fact that Gipson had blown it in this particular instance.
Gipson’s career with the Jets was filled with extreme highs and lows. He certainly announced himself with some drama in his NFL debut. Having had both a 20-yard reception and a 53-yard punt return for a touchdown, he led the team to an overtime-winning victory against the Buffalo Bills. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ much-heralded debut immediately went South as he walked off the field with a ruptured Achilles tendon. This depressing situation cast a pall over the entire production.
During his short stint with the Jets, Gipson had 27 catches for 268 yards and a touchdown. His poise under pressure was undeniable, but his up-and-down play ultimately got him released. Acknowledging his fumble, Gipson remarked, “I want it to be known that the decisions that are made are not rash decisions and never based off one incident, and I’ll keep it at that.” He knew how serious that error was, dubbing it “the worst time to fumble.” He was certain of his skills, telling his teammates not to worry because they know what the great Jolly can do.
As the Jets look ahead, they’ll have a number of candidates to replace Gipson. Former XFL standout Jamaal Pritchett, who is on the practice squad, is one of the players under consideration for elevation. Bryce Williams makes a strong case as the front-runner for the punt return spot. Williams, who has had just 11 career punt returns, could step in and offer some said stability of the future.
The Jets are bouncing back from that disappointment. Their goals are specific to getting better on special teams but keeping big picture goals in mind for overall improvement and performance. The organization remains committed to making strategic decisions that bolster their chances for success throughout the remainder of the season.
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