New York Jets coach Aaron Glenn is making a big statement following the team’s Week 1 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. If you make a game-altering mistake and cost the team a win, you won’t be around much longer.
The Jets will reportedly cut kick returner Xavier Gipson on Wednesday, just three days after he lost a crucial fumble in the team’s loss to the Steelers, according to multiple reports.
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Gipson’s fumbled came at the worst possible time for the Jets. Heading into the fourth quarter, the Jets held a 26-17 lead over Pittsburgh. But a nine-play scoring drive by Aaron Rodgers and the Steelers cut the Jets’ lead to just two points.
Pittsburgh kicked off hoping to stop Jets quarterback Justin Fields from mounting yet another strong drive. They accomplished that mission. Gipson fielded the kick and attempted to return the ball upfield. During the play, a Steelers defender ran past Gipson, but managed to stick a hand out and make contact with the ball. Gipson fumbled and Steelers wideout Ben Skowronek landed on it to secure the turnover.
Two plays later, Rodgers found Calvin Austin for a touchdown to put the Steelers ahead. Fields would lead a comeback drive, but a late field goal by Chris Boswell sealed the 34-32 win for the Steelers.
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After the contest, Glenn put Gipson on notice. The coach specifically called out Gipson’s turnover, saying, “you will not be on the field with this team if you’re gonna cause us to lose games.”
Three days later, Glenn proved he was serious about that statement.
With the release, Gipson will look to hook on with another club. The 24-year-old has experienced success as a returner in the past, but has 10 fumbles in 35 career games. Given his propensity for losing the ball, Gipson could have a tough time finding work, especially considering the nature of his release from the Jets.
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