Jets Coach Aaron Glenn Takes a Stand on Discipline

Aaron Glenn, the Jets coach, is serious about discipline. On Sunday, he made it clear that players who commit undisciplined mistakes won’t be kept on the field.

His stance seems firm.

Reports indicate that the Jets are set to cut Xavier Gipson on Wednesday. This decision follows Gipson’s costly fumble during a kickoff return in the fourth quarter of a tight game against the Steelers, which ended in a 34-32 loss.

The fumble played a significant role, leading to two touchdowns in a matter of just 50 seconds.

During a postgame press conference, Glenn hinted that Gipson’s position on the team had become precarious. “We can’t have mistakes like that,” he stated. “We need to be a more disciplined team. Penalties can’t happen. If you cause significant issues that lead to a loss, you won’t be on the field.” His words were pointed, clearly emphasizing accountability.

After a notable training camp struggle for the returner position against rookie Jamal Prickett, Gipson had managed to secure a spot on the roster. Now, following his release, Prickett appears to be the team’s go-to option.

Gipson joined the Jets as an undrafted free agent in 2023. He made quite an impression by returning a punt for a game-winning touchdown in overtime during the season opener against the Bills that year. However, his performance since then hasn’t been remarkable—last season, he tallied only six catches for a touchdown and 39 yards while also contributing in kickoff and punt returns.

On Sunday, things took a turn. The Steelers found the end zone on their very first play in the fourth quarter, with Gipson fumbling the next kickoff and handing the Steelers advantageous field position at the Jets’ 22-yard line. Just two plays later, Aaron Rodgers connected with Calvin Austin for an 18-yard touchdown, pushing the Steelers ahead 31-26.