CB JUSTIN GILBERT, OKLAHOMA ST.
6’0” – 200 lbs. – 4.50e
STATISTICAL PROFILE:
2010: 18 – 0.0 – 0.0, 1 FF, 1 PD, 2 KR TD
2011: 59 – 1.0 – 0.0, 10 PD, 5 INT, 2 KR TD
2012: 63 – 2.5 – 0.0, 1 FF, 9 PD, 1 KR TD
OVERVIEW:
Was recruited as a quarterback, but functioned as a reserve cornerback and kick returner as a freshman in 2010, then assumed a starting role in 2011, a role he has maintained since. One of the top kick returners in college football.
STRENGTHS:
• Will graduate with three years of starting experience at a major program.
• Rebounded, made his senior season unquestionably his best campaign.
• Tall with long limbs, certainly looks the part of a boundary cornerback.
• Fast enough to turn and run with any receiver down the sidelines.
• Quality ball skills, has soft hands and does a nice job high-pointing.
• Capable of sticking with his man, preventing separation on crosses.
• Doubles as one of the most dangerous kick returners in college football.
• Has contributed as a gunner on special teams, could translate to pros.
WEAKNESSES:
• Has had an inconsistent career, notably struggling throughout 2012.
• Gets a little bit lazy in his backpedal, ends up too high in more of a jog.
• Much more natural lining up in press-man coverage than in off-man.
• Not as instinctive in zone coverage as he is in man, looks tentative.
• Generally a willing run supporter, but struggles to shed blockers.
• Bites on some misdirection and double moves, needs to be more patient.
• How much can his technique be fixed after starting for three years?
SUMMARY:
Gilbert’s pro future remains a bit obscured because he’s got all of the physical tools to be a standout boundary cornerback, but has had a highly inconsistent collegiate career, partially because of his focus and awareness and partially because of his lazy technique at times, especially when backpedaling; because of his extensive starting experience, it’s unclear if those issues can ever be fixed. However, he made his senior season his best, locking down receivers in press-man coverage and displaying impressive ball skills. He won’t amaze anyone with his zone coverage, but should appeal to teams seeking a man-coverage corner and/or dangerous return option. RD 2-3