Jets Release Wide Receiver Xavier Gipson Following Fumble in Season Opener
FLORHAM PARK, N.J. – The New York Jets announced Tuesday they have released wide receiver Xavier Gipson, a day after he fumbled a punt return in the fourth quarter of Monday night’s 22-16 overtime loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. The turnover proved pivotal, setting up the steelers for the game-winning field goal.
Gipson, 24, was a surprise roster addition last season after signing as an undrafted free agent out of Stephen F. Austin. He quickly became a fan favorite, famously returning a punt 65 yards for the winning touchdown in overtime against the Buffalo Bills in the 2023 season opener – a game tragically overshadowed by Aaron Rodgers‘ Achilles tendon tear. Gipson finished his Jets career with 27 receptions for 268 yards and a touchdown,adding 73 rushing yards and another touchdown on nine carries.He also averaged 8.9 yards on punt returns and 26 yards on kickoffs.
the move signals a shift in direction for the Jets’ special teams unit and underscores the team’s emphasis on ball security. Gipson’s fumble came at a critical juncture, erasing a potential scoring possibility and handing momentum to the Steelers. The Jets will now look to evaluate other options at punt returner,potentially opening the door for a veteran addition or a promotion from within the practice squad.
Elsewhere on the injury front, rookie tight end Mason Taylor continues to recover from a high ankle sprain sustained during training camp, keeping him out of Wednesday’s practice. Taylor, the son of Pro Football Hall of Famer Jason Taylor, missed over a week of camp with the initial injury. Defensive tackle Jay Tufele was absent from practice to attend to a personal matter.