Jets releasing WR/KR Xavier Gipson following costly Week 1 fumble

Xavier Gipson, the Jets' primary kick and punt returner since the start of the 2023 season, is now searching for a new team.

According to multiple reports, the Jets are planning to release Gipson on Wednesday.

With the Jets leading, 26-17, at the end of the third quarter on Sunday, Pittsburgh scored a touchdown on the first play of the fourth to cut the lead to 26-24. On the ensuing kickoff, Gipson fumbled, giving the Steelers the ball back deep in Jets' territory. Aaron Rodgers would find Calvin Austin for an 18-yard touchdown two plays later, giving Pittsburgh a 31-26 lead.

In a game that featured seven lead changes, Gipson's fumble was the only turnover, and it helped swing the momentum more heavily in Pittsburgh's favor.

Originally an undrafted free agent signing of the Jets in 2023, Gipson made an immediate impact for Gang Green, scoring the game-winning touchdown on a punt return in overtime against the Buffalo Bills in Week 1.

But Gipson's production thereafter never quite lived up to that moment. In 35 games as a Jet, Gipson totaled 297 yards from scrimmage with 2,087 all-purpose yardage and three total touchdowns.