The Chicago Bears had a void at strong safety ahead of the 2020 NFL Draft and they've decided instead to address it in free agency. After not taking a safety in the draft, the Bears signed Tashaun Gipson to a one-year deal.

Prior to this year's draft, it was expected that Chicago could target a safety in its earlier rounds. Instead, the Bears elected to select tight end Cole Kmet and cornerback Jaylon Johnson with their two second-round picks.

Earlier this week, Gipson was released by the Houston Texans. His release came just a year after he signed a three-year, $22.5 million contract with the Texans. Nevertheless, Gipson appears to have a clear shot at starting for the Bears in 2020.

Gipson began his career with the Cleveland Browns in 2012 as an undrafted rookie out of Wyoming. In just his third season with the Browns, Gipson was able to notch 52 tackles, eight pass breakups and six interceptions. As a reward for his production, Gipson was selected for his one and only Pro Bowl in 2014.

Even though he hasn't made the Pro Bowl since 2014, Gipson has performed well in his stints with the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Texans. Just a season ago, the veteran safety started in 14 games for Houston, tallying eight deflections and three interceptions.

Last offseason, the Bears replaced Adrian Amos with Ha Ha Clinton-Dix following his departure in free agency. Now, after Clinton-Dix's departure, it seems as if Gipson will replace him. Gipson is expected to start alongside free safety Eddie Jackson for the 2020 season.