Jets notes: Schedule changes, Gipson vs. Hardman, Sauce and O-line
New York Jets wide receiver Xavier Gipson against Kansas City on Oct. 1, 2023. Credit: Lee S. Weissman
Changes are coming for the Jets.
Going 1-7 after their bye last year has Robert Saleh switching up the Jets' practice schedule to try and keep the players fresh and healthy for this season’s stretch run.
Their dismal finish, after a 6-3 start last year, bounced the Jets from the playoffs. They’re 3-3 now and with a strong finish could make the playoffs for the first time in 13 years.
“What can we do to stay fresh, excited about playing the game and stay healthy all at the same time?” Saleh said. “We’re changing things up moving forward. Nothing drastic, but enough to try to keep our guys physically, emotionally and mentally involved where they don’t feel like it’s, ‘Oh, here we go again.’
"It’s long days. Just trying to make sure we find that balance, but we still hit what we’re trying to hit from a preparation standpoint.”
Injury updates
Cornerbacks Sauce Gardner and D.J. Reed remain in the concussion protocol, Saleh said. Reed has missed the last two games and Gardner one.
Saleh had no update on right guard Joe Tippmann, who left last Sunday’s win with a thigh injury, other than he’s “a pretty quick healer.” When Tippmann got hurt, Saleh indicated he could miss some time. With players just returning, Saleh said they would check on everyone and have a better idea on Wednesday.
Gipson’s role
Undrafted rookie free agent Xavier Gipson’s emergence was “the major reason” that Mecole Hardman was traded back to Kansas City last week, according to Saleh.
He said Gipson took advantage of his opportunity with Hardman battling injuries in OTAs and training camp and carved out a spot as a returner and part-time receiver.
Hardman responded to Saleh’s remarks on Twitter with three “face-without-mouth” emojis, meaning no comment.
“It’s just an opportunity for us to develop a young guy,” Saleh said. “Nothing against Mecole.”
Gipson has just one catch, which is what Hardman had as a Jet.
Brown’s status
Duane Brown is eligible to come off IR. Saleh was vague on whether Brown would and where he will play when he does. Brown could move to the right side. Mekhi Becton replaced Brown at left tackle in Week 3 and has played well.
“We’ll always do what’s best for the organization first,” Saleh said, “with the whole mindset to play our best five.”
Breece’s anniversary
Running back Breece Hall tore his ACL one year ago Monday in Denver. He tweeted that it was the anniversary, but he said he didn’t remember. A trainer told him.
“It’s been a crazy year, ups and downs, frustrations, tears, everything. Just stayed prayed up throughout the whole process, worked my tail off and here today.”
Al Iannazzone covers the Jets for Newsday after spending nearly two decades on the NBA beat with Knicks and Nets.
