When someone asks an NFL backup whether or not his goal is to claim a position in the starting lineup, the answer is typically a resounding “yes.”
But apparently, that wasn’t the case for Cleveland Browns cornerback Justin Gilbert, who according to ESPN’s Tony Grossi said: “We’ll see what happens.”
Though Joe Haden has one spot locked down, Gilbert is steadily losing ground on free-agent signing Tramon Williams and 2014 fourth-round pick Pierre Desir. Per Grossi, when Williams and Haden received a day off on Monday and Tuesday, respectively, Desir took the vacated first-team reps instead of Gilbert, a first-rounder last season.
#Browns DBs coach Jeff Hafley on CB Pierre Desir w/ones ahead of Justin Gilbert: "Why was Pierre out there 1st today? Because he earned it."
— Nate Ulrich (@ByNateUlrich) August 2, 2015
Mary Kay Cabot of the Northeast Ohio Media Group notes Gilbert said the coaches have asked for consistency and attentiveness from him.
“(The coaches tell me) pretty much just the same thing: consistency, which is a big thing for me. Just coming and making plays on a consistent basis and just being alert in the meeting room and being involved and really wanting to be here.”
Following a disappointing rookie campaign, Gilbert shouldn’t be declared a bust. The Oklahoma State product wasn’t a top-10 draft pick merely because of potential. He’s a talented prospect who needs to focus on his development.
Nevertheless, the recent updates definitely aren’t overflowing with positive thoughts for Gilbert’s future in Cleveland.
Photo: USA Today Sports