NFL Trade Machine: Tashaun Gipson Challenging Browns

Jul 26, 2014; Berea, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns free safety Tashaun Gipson (39) practices during training camp at the Cleveland Browns training facility. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

The Cleveland Browns are earning a reputation for being a team nobody wants to play for, at least not without large sums of money.  Free safety Tashaun Gipson appears ready to join that crowd.  Though stymied by the 2nd round tender placed on him by the team for the 2015 season, it seems discussions about a possible long-term extension are falling on deaf ears.

The 25-year old seems intent on playing the year out and entering 2016 as an unrestricted free agent, daring the Browns to franchise tag him.  That would be unlikely given their recent history, which means either they let him walk or they attempt an NFL trade hoping somebody will be willing to pay up on that 2nd round tender.

It’s not impossible to think.  Gipson had six interceptions in just 11 games last season before getting hurt.  He’s young and becoming a proven playmaker at a position that continues to gain respect and importance among the coaching community.  If he gets off to a great start this coming season, it probably won’t take long for a few team to gleefully reserve their future 2nd round choices to bring him aboard.

A few teams to keep an eye on include the Philadelphia Eagles.  Chip Kelly values the safety position highly and remains on the lookout for upgrades.  Gipson, with his knack for turnovers would be the ideal fit for what he wants out of his defenses.  Another would be the Denver Broncos.  Their director of pro personnel, Tom Heckert was the GM in Cleveland when Gipson was drafted.  He’d make for a great addition to that Wade Phillips defense.