Despite reports that the 49ers safety Tashaun Gipson would like to return to San Francisco, it has been reported that he will be exploring free agency. That is not to say that he will not return, but it is something to watch for. The 2023 league year begins in a week, and the 49ers are interested in Gipson returning to the team for another year. Safety Jimmie Ward is also a free agent, and now the team will have to make a decision on how much they are willing to spend, and who they will push to keep.
49ers Safety Tashaun Gipson
The San Francisco 49ers signed Gipson right before the 2022 season began, which was a great decision by the team. This year, according to Pro Football Reference, Gipson had 61 combined tackles, 43 of which were solo. The 49ers safety also had five interceptions for 141 yards in the 2022 regular season. Gipson took over as the starting safety role for the team, despite Jimmie Ward returning to the team following an injury. 49ers Head Coach Kyle Shanahan moved Ward to play at the nickel position to keep Gipson as the safety.
Gipson has been in the league for 11 years, and despite going into his 12th season, he does not look like he is slowing down. According to a tweet by Matt Barrows, per sources, the 49ers safety will go into next week exploring free agency. This is a big offseason for the safety position, with players such as Jimmie Ward and Jessie Bates about to hit the market. There are also multiple teams who are in need of a top safety.
The 49ers will need to figure out if they want Gipson or Ward back, or if they can make the money work if they want both. The odds of both returning are low, but there is a solid chance that Gipson will come back to the team due to mutual interest. Based on the season he had, the veteran has a chance to be paid well by other teams.
The 49ers will still have Talanoa Hufanga next year but will need to make sure he has someone else strong on the field with him. Free Agency is less than a week away, and the safety position for the 49ers is still up in the air.
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