Jets Make Shock Move, Let Go of Veteran Punter in Surprising Tuesday Decision

Sometimes, the game isn’t just played on the field—it’s also in the boardroom and the back offices. Take the New York Jets, for example. Out of nowhere this week, they’ve shown us that even a steady hand like Thomas Morstead isn’t immune to the ruthless churn of NFL youth movements. How often do we see a seasoned punter, still firing 48-yard bombs and pinning foes deep, get the boot just as he’s settling into family moments? It’s the kind of curveball that makes you wonder—does experience count in the league’s cold calculus, or is it all about the next fresh leg poised to flip field position and fortunes? Whatever the case, the Jets are clearing cap space and hitting the reset button on their punting squad, signaling a shift in philosophy under new leadership. It’s a reminder: in football, as in life, loyalty can be fleeting—but opportunity, for someone younger and hungrier, is just a snap away.

The New York Jets have made an unexpected move at the punter position, parting ways with a veteran presence who’s been a model of consistency.

On Tuesday, the team announced the release of Thomas Morstead, ending his two-year stint with the green and white squad.

NFL insider Ari Meirov shared the update, offering insight into what might have prompted the decision.

“Releasing Thomas Morstead comes as a surprise, but the #Jets are looking to go younger at the position. Morstead, 39, is still an excellent punter and a strong locker room presence, but the team has decided to move on,” Meirov added.

Releasing Thomas Morstead comes as a surprise, but the #Jets are looking to go younger at the position. Morstead, 39, is still an excellent punter and a strong locker room presence, but the team has decided to move on. https://t.co/pTNjf0TcaY

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) May 13, 2025

The Jets appear to be freeing up cap space while pivoting toward younger talent, potentially creating an opportunity for undrafted rookie Austin McNamara to step into the spotlight.

Despite the turbulence surrounding the New York Jets organization recently, Morstead remained a picture of reliability.

During his tenure, he appeared in 34 games and averaged an impressive 48.2 yards per punt, with 55 of those kicks pinned inside the opposing 20 yard line.

At 39 years old, Morstead brought both seasoned leadership and performance to the field.

Just in March 2024, he recommitted to the New York Jets with a two-year contract worth $5.1 million.

The move aligns with a broader shift in team philosophy since head coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey took the reins in January.

The duo has clearly prioritized youth over experience, as evidenced by the current roster makeup.

Only four players—Thomas Hennessy, Josh Reynolds, Tyrod Taylor, and Greg Zuerlein—are now 30 or older.

Interestingly, when the Jets delivered the news, Morstead was enjoying family time while practicing kicks at Tulane’s Yulman Stadium with his children.

This timing has fueled speculation about whether the accomplished punter might find his way back to New Orleans, where he previously played for over a decade.

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