The Giants are bringing back a familiar face, signing wide receiver and return specialist Xavier Gipson to their practice squad this week. It’s a reunion of sorts, as Gipson had a brief stint with the team earlier this season before being waived ahead of Week 3.
Gipson’s journey around the league this year has been a winding one. After initially signing with the Jets as an undrafted free agent out of Stephen F.
Austin following the 2023 NFL Draft, he carved out a role for himself in New York, sticking on the roster as a rookie and again in his second and third seasons. But after Week 1 this year, the Jets moved on, waiving Gipson and opening the door for the Eagles to scoop him up.
Philadelphia gave him a look, but that opportunity didn’t stick either. Now, the Giants are giving him another shot-this time on the practice squad, where he’ll have a chance to work his way back onto the active roster.
In limited action this season, Gipson has appeared in six games, logging two receptions for six yards. But his real value has come in the return game. He’s returned six punts for 67 yards and added seven kick returns for 177 yards-numbers that, while not eye-popping, show his ability to contribute on special teams and flip field position.
For the Giants, this move is about depth, versatility, and familiarity. Gipson knows the system, has shown flashes as a return man, and offers a skill set that could be useful down the stretch, especially if injuries pile up or the team looks to shake things up on special teams.
At 24, Gipson still has time to develop, and his resilience in bouncing around the league this season speaks to the kind of player who’s willing to grind for every opportunity. The Giants are giving him one more shot to prove he belongs-and if he can make the most of it, he might just find himself back on the field sooner rather than later.