FLORHAM PARK, N.J. – The winless New York Jets have made a blunt decision for the second time in a month. They have released a player who made a crucial mistake on special teams.
Isaiah Williams, who lost a fumble on the second-half kickoff during the 27-21 loss to the Miami Dolphins on Monday night, was waived on Saturday.
This action reflects the determination of coach Aaron Glenn, who seeks to establish accountability in the team. Previously, after the Week 1 loss against the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Jets cut kickoff returner Xavier Gipson, whose late fumble proved costly in the two-point loss.
In Williams’ case, he also made a mental error: a fair catch on his own 3-yard line, with the Jets losing by 11 points in the final quarter.
That was a big part of the game, and I let the team down.
Regarding the free ball reception, Williams commented: “I was overthinking, trying to make a play. At the last minute, I see a Miami player and forget where I am on the field.”
The Jets replaced Williams on the roster with linebacker Mykal Walker, who was promoted from the practice squad.
It’s not yet clear who will handle kickoff and punt returns on Sunday against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium, but the most likely candidates are running back Avery Williams (promoted from the practice squad) and backup running back Isaiah Davis, who has 11 kickoff returns. Williams, a former Atlanta Falcons draft pick, was signed this week to the practice squad.
The Jets are in a complicated situation, as their primary kickoff returner, Kene Nwangwu (hamstring), has missed three games and is also ruled out for Sunday’s game. Running back Braelon Allen has also done kickoff returns, but he injured his knee on Monday night and will be out for at least two months.
Safety Dean Clark was also promoted for the match.
