FLORHAM PARK, N.J. – The winless New York Jets have made significant decisions in recent weeks, releasing players who made crucial mistakes on special teams. On this occasion, Isaiah Williams, who lost a fumble on the second-half kickoff during the 27-21 loss against the Miami Dolphins last Monday night, was cut on Saturday. This action reflects the approach of coach Aaron Glenn, who seeks to establish a culture of accountability. After the Week 1 loss against the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Jets had already cut kickoff returner Xavier Gipson, whose fumble at the end of the game proved costly. In addition to the fumble, Williams made a mental error by making a fair catch on his own 3-yard line when the Jets were losing by 11 points in the final quarter.
Regarding the free reception, Williams commented: “I was overthinking, trying to make a play. At the last moment, I saw a Miami player and forgot where I was on the field.” The Jets replaced Williams on the roster with linebacker Mykal Walker, who was promoted from the practice squad. It is not yet clear who will handle kickoff and punt returns in the next game against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium. The most likely candidates are running back Avery Williams (elevated from the practice squad) and backup running back Isaiah Davis, who has 11 kickoff returns. Avery Williams, former selection of the Atlanta Falcons, was signed this week for the practice squad. The situation is complicated for the Jets due to the absence of Kene Nwangwu (hamstring), their main kickoff returner, who has missed three games and is also ruled out for Sunday. Running back Braelon Allen, who also handled kickoff returns, suffered a knee injury on Monday night and will be out for at least two months. Also, safety Dean Clark was also promoted for the match.That was a key moment in the game, and I let the team down.
Isaiah Williams
