SFA WR Xavier Gipson (2) in a 2021 game at Texas Tech — © Michael C. Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

Meet the Jets' UDFA: Xavier Gipson, WR, Stephen F. Austin (82)

Big-play receiver trying to stand out amongst Gang Green's stacked receiving corps

Author:
Ralph Ventre
Publish date:
Jun 7, 2023 2:29 PM EDT

In this story:

New York Jets

Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks

Xavier Gipson has a tall task at hand when it comes to making the New York Jets' 53-man roster as a wide receiver.

There simply isn't much room for the undrafted rookie to fit into a unit that features three veteran free-agent signees as well as the reigning NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year.

Even so, Gipson was a solid post-draft signing that may be able to make a name for himself as a special teamer or land on the Practice Squad as a developmental pass-catcher.

The undersized, big-play receiver ended his Stephen F. Austin tenure as the active career receiving yards (4,321) leader in the NCAA subdivision (DI FCS) that once featured the likes of Jerry Rice, Terrell Owens and all-time Jets' fan favorite Wayne Chrebet.

Gipson participated in the 2023 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl, showcasing his ability during the week-long all-star experience in Pasadena. The small-school draft prospect blew past the coverage to make a 48-yard reception for the American Team in an eventual 19-17 win by the Jeff Fisher-coached squad.

Gipson consistently showed explosiveness as a receiver and return specialist during his collegiate career, which was highlighted by two Western Athletic Conference Offensive Player of the Year awards.

The 5-foot-9 receiver routinely displayed big-play ability during a 2022 season that ended with his selection to the Stats Perform FCS All-America First Team. Averaging 17.9 yards per catch, Gipson accounted for at least one 45+ yard play from scrimmage in seven of Stephen F. Austin’s 11 games.

He gained 140+ yards receiving in five different games last fall. In addition to seven touchdown receptions, the All-American twice reached paydirt as a punt returner.

The speedy pass-catcher accounted for monster performances in a pair of 2022 WAC road wins. Gipson exploded for 256 yards and two touchdowns on 10 receptions at Southern Utah (Oct. 22). In the season finale (Nov. 19), he victimized Abilene Christian to the tune of 11 catches for 213 yards and one score.