Could the 49ers decide to reunite with the suspended safety?

The 49ers may not be looking for a starting safety, but given the uncertainty at the position, adding depth could be crucial to completing the roster. Veteran Tashaun Gipson, who was recently suspended six games by the NFL for violating the league’s doping policy, could be on the short list of players San Francisco is looking to sign.

While the club isn’t necessarily on the market ahead of training camp, Gipson could be an option depending on how things play out in camp. There are question marks about Talanoa Hufanga’s health, as well as the readiness of second-year safety Ji’Ayir Brown and rookie Malik Mustapha, who was drafted in the fourth round.

Even with his suspension, Gipson would make sense as a backup if something goes wrong in the secondary. He recently issued a statement through his agent regarding his 6-game suspension. Here’s the statement from Matt Maiocco of NBC Sports Bay Area:

This offseason, I took a supplement that I thought was completely safe and met NFL guidelines.

At no point did it have anything to do with performance, training or gaining any kind of advantage. I have been playing at this level for a long time and have nothing but respect for the game and the community of players 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 attempted to cheat the game.

I am excited to return for my 13th NFL season and help a team compete for a championship.

Because of the NFL suspension, Gipson could participate in training camp, but he would be unavailable for the first six games of the year, which could dampen enthusiasm for adding him to the team.

Gipson started 33 or 34 games for the 49ers over the past two seasons, recording six interceptions and 11 pass defenses. The soon-to-be 34-year-old may not be an ideal starter at this point, but it’s hard to think of a better candidate if San Francisco is looking for a reliable backup for training camp or the regular season.