49ers safety shocked by suspension: ‘I never even tried to cheat the game’

A San Francisco 49ers player suspended for taking performance-enhancing drugs has denied knowingly breaking the rules.

On July 2, the NFL handed free agent Tashaun Gipson a six-game suspension for violating the league’s policy on performance-enhancing substances, leading some to believe the 33-year-old would retire.

On Monday, Gipson released a statement regarding his suspension, which included a statement of his intentions to play next season.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported Gipson’s statement, which read like one-third blame, one-third denial of guilt and one-third “I’ll be back, baby!” revelation.

“During the offseason, I took a supplement once that I believed to be completely safe and in accordance with NFL policies,” Gipson said, according to Schefter. “It had nothing to do with performance, training or gaining an advantage of any kind at any time. I have played at this level for a long time and have nothing but respect for the game and the brotherhood of players who participate in it. The NFL’s policy on performance-enhancing substances is clear and I take full responsibility for everything I put into my body. It is with great disappointment that I accept this suspension, and I do so knowing that I never even attempted to cheat. I look forward to returning for my 13th season in the NFL and helping a team compete for a championship.”

It’s unclear whether or not Gipson will help the 49ers compete for a championship, but it’s likely another team will select Gipson if San Francisco decides to move on.

Gipson was durable and efficient all last season for the 49ers, recording 60 tackles in 16 regular-season starts to go along with 14 tackles in the playoffs.

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