NFL: C.J. Mosley, Top Five Rising Stars

4 of 6

Oct 26, 2014; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns free safety Tashaun Gipson (39) reacts after making a stop against the Oakland Raiders during the fourth quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium. The Browns won 23-13. Mandatory Credit: Ron Schwane-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Tashaun Gipson, FS, Cleveland Browns

Yet another one of the top up-and-coming stars is a defensive player, and this time around it is Cleveland Browns’ free safety Tashaun Gipson. He had a big season last year with the Browns, but has stepped up even more this season and has proven himself to the league. The Browns are currently in good position as far as the AFC playoff race is concerned, and Gipson is a big reason for that success.

This season, Gipson has put up huge numbers through the first nine games. He has made 42 tackles to go along with six interceptions, a defensive touchdown, and eight defensed passes. At 24 years of age, he still has plenty of room to go and plenty of time to reach his full potential.

Cleveland doesn’t have one of the NFL’s best defenses statistically, but they have made some plays this season. Gipson needs to continue putting up the type of numbers that he has thus far if the Browns want to make a playoff run. Needless to say, he has come through with a very impressive season so far this year.

Next: 2. T.Y. Hilton, WR, Indianapolis Colts

Home/Baltimore Ravens