New York Jets trade undrafted preseason standout to AFC East rival

The New York Jets have seemingly settled on Xavier Gipson for the return specialist role, making their undrafted rookie expendable.

Instead of releasing North Carolina Central product Brandon Codrington, the Jets pulled off a rare intra-division trade and sent the preseason standout to the Buffalo Bills . The exchange also involves a swap of 2026 late-round draft picks according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Codrington, a defensive back, flashed his return ability in all three Jets' preseason victories this summer. He totaled 158 return yards, including an electrifying 63-yard run back on the new kickoff play against the Carolina Panthers .

The 23-year-old Codrington returned six punts for 83 yards, including a long of 31 yards, during exhibition season.

On defense, the rookie totaled seven tackles and one pass breakup. It was obviously an uphill battle for Codrington to earn a spot in New York's stacked secondary.

Competing for an HBCU program at the NCAA Division I FCS, Codrington thrice earned All-Mid Eastern Athletic Conference honors for his return prowess. His memorable 77-yard punt return touchdown powered NC Central to a win over Alcorn State in the 2021 MEAC/SWAC Challenge.

The Jets are in the process of trimming their 90-man roster down to the 53 limit .

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