It appears Tashaun Gipson has decided against retirement.
The veteran safety said he was considering hanging up his cleats at the end of the 2022 season, but now wants to return for at least one more year according to Matt Barrows of The Athletic.
Gipson, 32, started every game for the 49ers in the regular season and postseason after being acquired as a practice squad signing. It was an incredible under-the-radar move. Gipson played at a near Pro Bowl level for much of the season, and good enough that Jimmie Ward was moved to the nickel position when he returned from injury.
Gipson is an unrestricted free agent and could sign anywhere, but the 49ers have said they’d like to have him back. With Ward reported to be leaving, it would seem likely the San Francisco will try and work something out.
At the end of the season, Gipson said his enjoyment playing alongside Talanoa Hufanga would play a big part in wanting to return.
“[Hufanga] will be one of the sole reasons, honestly, for me wanting to continue playing,” Gipson told Jennifer Lee Chan after the season. “Because that’s how much love I’ve got for him. I wouldn’t be here without him. That youthfulness — I can’t tell you enough.”