Texans near deal with S Gipson after Mathieu flees for KC

Tashaun Gipson agreed to a deal with the Houston Texans, helping the team digest the loss of safety Tyrann Mathieu in free agency. The Houston Chronicle and ESPN reported the deal Tuesday.

Gipson, 28, a three-year starter with the Jacksonville Jaguars, was released in cap-related move last week. Mathieu agreed to a three-year deal with the Kansas City Chiefs on Monday.

Gipson reportedly drew interest from the Chicago Bears, Green Bay Packers and New York Giants. Gipson is the first reported addition to the Texans during free agency, while Mathieu, Kareem Jackson (Broncos) and Kevin Johnson (Bills) are gone. Johnson, a former first-round pick, was released by the team.

Gipson started all 48 games for the Jags, recording 159 tackles, 16 passes defended and six interceptions. He has 20 interceptions in his seven-year career. Gipson was selected to the Pro Bowl after the 2014 season with Cleveland. --Field Level Media