Free Agent Profile: Tashaun Gipson

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A quick look at why it makes a ton of sense for the Jaguars to target the four year veteran from Cleveland.

By Jordan de Lugo

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Tashaun Gipson is coming off a less than stellar 2015 campaign, but then again, most Cleveland Browns players are. The Browns were a mess last season for many reasons including coaching turmoil, and the obvious Johnny Manziel Saga. Gipson though, had other issues that belonged to him alone. He wasn't very happy about having to sign a second round tender and thus held out for most of the offseason leading into the 2015 campaign. This can be linked to his underwhelming production this past season. Additionally he struggled through injury for part of the season, missing three games. Gipson’s subpar 2015 and recent injury issues (missed 8 games in last 2 seasons) do cause some concern, but overall he is a great fit for the Jaguars.

Gipson is only 25 and is about to enter his prime as a player. Being only 25, he should have at least 5 good years left and could be the Jaguars free safety for years to come. Prior to his disappointing 2015, he was one of the hottest young safeties in the league. In the two seasons prior to 2015 he recorded 6 and 5 interceptions respectively, numbers that Jaguars fans have rarely seen from a safety in Jax. Gipson has very good range and is a true ball hawk, with experience playing center field. He would easily help the Jaguars in pass defense, most notably helping get them off the field on third down.

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Not only does he have ideal stats, age, and experience, but he fits the Jaguars’ need at free safety, almost to a tee. At FS the Jags don't need someone who can blow guys up in run defense, they need someone who can play center field and make plays on the ball in pass coverage. To this point, they haven't identified a single player at free safety who can do the job that is required. The Jaguars swung and missed on Sergio Brown, who was absolutely awful in 2015. They also attempted to fix the free safety spot with the oft injured James Sample, who is more likely a true strong safety. Gipson has the range, instincts, and speed to dramatically improve the Jaguars pass defense. The Jags should target this fourth year pro early in free agency as someone that could greatly improve their chances of fielding a quality defense in 2015. He should be considered a top priority as it seems likely that he wants out of Cleveland. With Eric Berry almost certain to stay in Kansas City, Gipson could be the best free safety available in this years free agent class, and is a player that possesses two key traits that the Jaguars defense currently lacks -- Playmaking ability and SPEED!

Here is a highlight reel from Gipson's most impressive season as a pro: