The NY Jets are fortunate to have a relatively healthy squad as they open training camp this week. However, one notable player sustained an apparent injury during Thursday’s practice.On Thursday, second-year wide receiver Xavier Gipson walked out of 11-on-11 drills after a ball to Allen Lazard. Later in the day, Jets head coach Robert Saleh informed reporters that there was no update on Gipson’s status.

Gipson begins the summer as the Jets’ primary kick and punt returner, as well as the current third-string wide receiver behind Garrett Wilson and Mike Williams. Gipson is expected to be the team’s primary slot receiver if the season begins tomorrow. The Jets hope that rookie Malachi Corley can ultimately take over the primary job, but Gipson will play on offense and special teams in 2024 if he stays healthy. Here’s hope the harm is minor.

More New York Jets news. John Simpson was benched twice

The Jets’ offensive line was one of the highlights of Thursday’s practice; even without Alijah Vera-Tucker and Morgan Moses in team drills, the unit appears to have progressed dramatically from a year ago. Starting left guard John Simpson made two mistakes, which was the only negative takeaway from the day. On two instances, the free-agent addition was benched in favor of Xavier Newman due to false start penalties.

Penalty concerns have plagued Simpson throughout his career, with the former Baltimore Ravens starter being flagged 11 times in 2023 (his best season), ranking second-worst among all guards. The Jets appear to be taking infractions more seriously in practice this summer, with Simpson being the first notable player to be held accountable. Let’s hope this isn’t a reoccurring issue for the Jets’ new starter.

Everyone enjoys Tyron Smith,

Tyron Smith has already exceeded expectations with the Jets, both on and off the field. The future Hall of Fame left tackle has been a major reason for the offensive line’s comeback in camp this summer, and his off-field contributions have proven to be equally vital. Jets defensive end Jermaine Johnson praised Smith on Thursday, describing his practice experience opposing him as “invaluable.” He went on to explain how Smith would approach him with suggestions both during and after the play.

Jets head coach Robert Saleh then went out of his way to praise Smith’s leadership on and off the field, emphasizing how the All-Pro lineman will spend valuable time after practice passing on knowledge to the team’s younger players, as shown below. Tyron Smith is not only one of the Jets’ top players, but he also functions as an extra coach on and off the field. His contributions to this squad are invaluable.