Veteran safety Tashaun Gipson Sr. announced Monday that he fully accepts responsibility for using a supplement that resulted in a six-game suspension for violating the NFL’s performance-enhancing substances policy. Gipson is determined to return for his 13th NFL season.
“During this offseason, I took a supplement once, believing it to be safe and compliant with NFL policies. It was not intended to enhance performance, training, or gain any advantage. I have always respected the game and my fellow players,” Gipson stated.
“The NFL’s policy on performance-enhancing substances is explicit, and I am accountable for what I consume. Although I am deeply disappointed by this suspension, I accept it knowing I have never sought to cheat the game. I eagerly anticipate returning for my 13th season to help a team compete for a championship.”
After completing his six-game suspension, Gipson looks forward to resuming his NFL career.
Gipson, who played the last two seasons with the San Francisco 49ers, is currently a free agent. Signed for added depth before the 2022 season, Gipson revitalized his career with the 49ers, quickly securing the starting free safety position. He was re-signed on a one-year, $2.9 million contract.
Over two seasons with San Francisco, Gipson, turning 34 in August, emerged as a trusted leader among the young defensive backs and a reliable presence in the secondary. In 2023, he started 16 games, recording 60 tackles, a sack, and an interception, following a 2022 season with 61 tackles and five interceptions. He also made five of his 14 postseason tackles in the Super Bowl LVIII loss to the Kansas City Chiefs.
Originally undrafted in 2012 from Wyoming, Gipson has played for the Cleveland Browns, Jacksonville Jaguars, Houston Texans, Chicago Bears, and the 49ers. His career stats include 684 tackles, 2.5 sacks, 33 interceptions, and three defensive touchdowns in 173 regular-season games.