Wide Receiver/Kick Returner Xavier Gipson did not stay unemployed long after his release from the New York Jets on Wednesday. The 24-year-old may not even have to look for a new place to live, as he was claimed by the New York Giants earlier today. Gipson was let go by the Jets after a costly fumble on a fourth-quarter return in the team’s 34-32 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Why The Jets Let Gipson Go
First-year Head Coach Aaron Glenn has bemoaned turnovers and preached accountability in trying to change team culture. Gipson signed with the Jets as an undrafted free agent in 2023 and was an instant hero. When Aaron Rodgers went down with a ruptured Achilles in his Jets debut against the Buffalo Bills, it was Gipson who picked up his team. The rookie pulled out the win with a game-winning punt return touchdown in overtime.
Things for Gipson have not been so rosy since that game. With his fumble on Sunday against his former teammate’s new team, the Stephen F. Austin alum has now fumbled ten times in a Jets uniform. The Jets signed receiver/return man Isaiah Williams to replace him on the roster.
Why The Giants Picked Up Gipson
The Giants looked terrible in their Week 1 matchup against the division rival Washington Commanders, losing 21-6. The offense, under new Quarterback Russell Wilson, managed only 231 yards of offense. Receiver/Kick Returner Wan’Dale Robinson injured his ankle in that game and is questionable for Sunday’s game against the Dallas Cowboys. Receiver Darius Slayton is also listed as questionable with a groin injury, so Gipson could see action both in the passing game and the return game on Sunday.
By The Numbers
For his career, Gipson has played in 35 games, hauling in 27 passes on 48 targets for 268 yards and 1 touchdown. As a return man, he has 44 kick returns for 1142 yards (26.0 average) and 68 punt returns for 604 yards (8.9 average) and 1 touchdown. He also has nine rushes for 73 yards and a touchdown.
My Take
Gipson’s talent has never been the question. He has the speed and big-play ability to be a solid NFL receiver and return man. His problem has always been his proclivity for fumbling the ball. If the Giants can break him of that tendency, he could be useful to the team as they struggle to find their identity. Right now, the Wilson/Jaxson Dart power struggle at quarterback will probably be what everyone is watching.
