Posted on Aug 11
Tashaun Gipson Sr. returns to Jaguars on one-year deal, addresses suspension: "Not related to performance"
u/alex •
Tashaun Gipson Sr. returns to the Jacksonville Jaguars on a one-year deal but will serve a six-game suspension for violating the NFL's performance-enhancing substances policy.
Why it matters: Gipson's return provides veteran experience and depth to the Jaguars' safety position, but his suspension raises questions about his availability for a significant portion of the upcoming season.
What's new: Gipson, who previously played for the Jaguars from 2016 to 2018, has reached an agreement with the team on a one-year contract.
Yes, but: The suspension will sideline Gipson for the first six games of the 2024 season, which significantly impacts the Jaguars' plans for their secondary during that period.
What to watch: The Jaguars will rely on Andre Cisco, Antonio Johnson, and newly signed Darnell Savage to fill the void left by Gipson's absence during the early part of the season.
What's next: Gipson will participate in the preseason with the Jaguars before serving his suspension. After completing his suspension, he will rejoin the team for the remainder of the season.
Gipson acknowledged responsibility for the violation in a statement but emphasized that it was unrelated to performance or gaining an advantage.
According to Gipson: "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 spent the past two seasons with the San Francisco 49ers before returning to the Jaguars. In 2023, he started all 16 games and recorded 60 tackles, a sack, and an interception. In the previous season, he tallied 61 tackles and five interceptions.
The signing of Gipson adds experienced depth to the Jaguars' roster, but the suspension raises concerns about his availability for a substantial portion of the upcoming season.
The bottom line: While Gipson's return brings familiarity and veteran leadership to the Jaguars' defense, his suspension will require the team to rely on younger players and adjust their defensive strategies during the first six games of the season. The Jaguars must ensure they have a solid contingency plan in place during Gipson's absence.