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Gipson was suspended six games by the NFL last
Tuesday after violating the league's performance-enhancing
substance abuse policy.
"During this offseason I took a supplement one time, which I
thought to be completely safe and well within any of the NFL's
policies," Gipson said in Monday's statement. "It was in no way
related to performance, training, or gaining an advantage of any
kind at any time."
Gipson expressed respect for the game and his fellow players,
while saying he will not appeal the decision.
"The NFL's policy on performance enhancing substances is clear,
and I take full responsibility for anything I put into my body.
It is with great disappointment that I accept this suspension,
and I do so knowing that I have never even attempted to cheat
the game. I look forward to returning for my 13th NFL season and
helping a team compete for a championship."
The suspension will not go into effect until the regular season,
if and when Gipson signs with a team. The former Pro Bowler in
2014, while a member of the Cleveland Browns, still can
participate in all preseason activities, including games.
In 12 NFL seasons, Gipson has 684 tackles, 33 interceptions and
three TDs in 173 games (165 starts) for the Browns (2012-15),
Jacksonville Jaguars (2016-18), Houston Texans (2019), Chicago
Bears (2020-21) and 49ers after going undrafted out of Wyoming.
The 33-year-old, who reportedly had been considering retirement,
started all 33 games he played in over the last two seasons for
the 49ers, making 121 tackles with six interceptions.
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