"[Tashaun Gipson] is a guy that we've always kept in touch with, and we'll continue to," general manager John Lynch said in March.
Gipson remains a free agent, available for any team to sign. However, his stock recently took a hit when he was suspended for six games due to a violation of the league's performance-enhancing substances policy.
Last season, Gipson started 16 regular-season games and all three playoff games, including Super Bowl LVII, for the 49ers. He amassed 74 tackles in those 19 contests and doesn't plan on 2023 being his last season.
"During this offseason I took a supplement one time, which I thought to be completely safe and well within any of the NFL's policies," Gipson said in a statement to ESPN's Adam Schefter. "It was in no way related to performance, training, or gaining an advantage of any kind at any time. I have competed at this level for a long time, and have nothing but respect for the game and the fraternity of players in it."
Gipson hopes to play in 2024, assuming a team comes calling. The fact that the safety will need to sit out six games will weigh heavily on any decision involving the free agent.
"The NFL's policy on performance enhancing substances is clear, and I take full responsibility for anything I put into my body," Gipson continued. "It is with great disappointment that I accept this suspension, and I do so knowing that I have never even attempted to cheat the game. I look forward to returning for my 13th NFL season and helping a team compete for a championship."
San Francisco has seemingly moved on from Gipson, who was a solid contributor over the past two seasons. The team fortified the position by using a fourth-round draft pick on Malik Mustapha out of Wake Forest, and there is speculation that the 49ers could add someone like Justin Simmons before the start of the season.
Gipson's age, combined with his suspension, could jeopardize his chances of playing a 13th season.
Related News
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
Why 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan still trails others among NFL play callers
San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan is widely regarded as one of the NFL's premier offensive minds. Yet, despite his reputation as an elite play caller, he still isn't considered the league's best. Daniel Rios of Essentially Sports recently ranked the NFL's top 10... -
49ers stars believe revamped receiver room could be among team's best
The San Francisco 49ers lost several contributors from their wide receiver room this offseason, including veterans Jauan Jennings and Kendrick Bourne. However, knowing a transition was underway at the position, the team moved aggressively to reload its receiving corps. The... -
49ers mentioned in two bold three-team trade proposals
Three-team trades are rare in the NFL, but they remain fun to imagine because they can address needs for several franchises at once. The San Francisco 49ers were active this offseason, but on paper, they still appear to trail the Los Angeles Rams and Seattle Seahawks in the... -
Schefter casts doubt on potential 49ers target Joey Bosa continuing NFL career
There has been significant speculation that the San Francisco 49ers could pursue a veteran pass rusher ahead of the 2026 season, with defensive end Joey Bosa often mentioned as a potential option. A reunion with the 49ers would create a major storyline, as Joey's younger...