Xavier Gipson says he’s ready to ‘look within’ as Giants opportunity follows Jets release
Former Jets receiver and return specialist, released after Week 1 fumble, praised coach Aaron Glenn for personally informing him of the move
Xavier Gipson said he is ready to "look within" after being released by the New York Jets and picked up by the New York Giants, calling his new chance a moment for reflection and work.
Gipson, a 24-year-old former undrafted free agent out of Stephen F. Austin in his third NFL season, acknowledged the fateful play that preceded his release — a costly fumble in the Jets' Week 1 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers — but said he did not hold a grudge against Jets coach Aaron Glenn. He told The Post that Glenn called him before notifying others and was straightforward about the decision.
"He called me. I can’t do nothing but respect it," Gipson said. "He came to me first, before he went to anybody else. I can’t do nothing but respect that as a man. He just told me, ‘This is the hardest part of the business, but I’m going to have to release you.'"
Glenn, who made the roster move earlier in the week, said the decision was not based solely on the fumble but on a combination of factors. The team released Gipson shortly after the Week 1 game; the Giants signed him days later to fill a role as a receiver and return specialist.
Gipson has spent most of his professional career contributing on special teams and as a slot receiver. The Jets used him in return duties last season, and he has said he welcomes the opportunity in East Rutherford to rebuild and improve. He was seen attending Giants practice on Friday, working with the offense and special teams during sessions at the team's training facility.
The move highlights the NFL’s roster volatility, particularly for players in specialist and reserve roles. Coaches and front offices routinely make quick decisions in response to performance, roster construction and injuries; Gipson said he is treating his release and new signing as part of the business and a chance to refocus.
Gipson’s immediate role with the Giants will be as depth at receiver and as a return option, roles that carry opportunities to contribute on game days if he can translate practice snaps into consistent play. He said he plans to "look within" and work to regain a steady role in the league.
He spoke to The Post after joining the Giants and declined to criticize his former team, instead emphasizing respect for how the situation was handled and the personal call from Glenn.