The term that most accurately reflects linebacker DaRon Gilbert’s path to the NFL is adversity. Gilbert faced a tough challenge entering training camp as an undrafted rookie in a packed linebacker group. His one year of experience playing the position made the challenge even greater.
Gilbert is originally from Detroit and played at Brother Rice High School. He started his college career as a safety at Lafayette College, an FCS institution located in Pennsylvania. Following four strong seasons with the Leopards, he moved to Northern Illinois and changed his position from safety to linebacker. He played in all 13 games during his senior year and was an important player on special teams as well.
Preseason
Following his undrafted status, DaRon Gilbert received a minimal UDFA contract from the Detroit Lions, which included only $2,500 in guaranteed funds.
Gilbert experienced a subdued training camp but truly made an impression during the preseason. In the game against the Giants, he logged more snaps than all other linebackers on the team. Although he spent the majority of his college career as a defensive back, he seemed more at ease as a box defender. He still showcased his ball skills in coverage and recorded one pass breakup.
Gilbert’s asset lies in his skill to analyze the rival offense and create opportunities against the run. He made decisions swiftly against New York and minimized his rookie errors when facing the run game. His background as a safety was evident when he defended tight ends and running backs in the center of the field during short-yardage passing plays. He completed the game with four tackles and the previously mentioned pass breakup.
Regrettably, Gilbert sustained an injury during a practice after that preseason match and was released with an injury settlement on August 13.
Season of regular play
Although the specifics of the injury settlement are unknown, being waived with that designation indicated that Gilbert could potentially join another team in 2024 or possibly make a comeback in Detroit.
Gilbert was once again signed to Detroit’s practice squad on December 26. Gilbert did not get promoted for any of the Lions’ upcoming games. After the conclusion of the team’s playoff journey, he was re-signed on a reserve/futures contract, showing that the Lions see potential in him.
2025 forecast
Gilbert’s main rivals as he approaches the 2025 season will be his fellow Michiganders, Anthony Pittman and Trevor Nowaske (both free agents expected to return). Although all three are backup linebackers with the potential to be key special team players, Gilbert’s adaptability could make him more distinctive compared to the rest. Although Pittman and Nowaske can function as regular inside linebackers or pass rushers, Gilbert’s advantage lies in his background as a safety and his skill in dropping back for coverage. His individual defensive skills require improvement, but he excels as a zone defender in confined areas.
For Gilbert to make the 53-man roster next season, several things must occur. Initially, he must remain in good health. His injury kept him from participating in two preseason games and being part of an NFL roster for more than four months. That is crucial experience for an undrafted rookie that he has yet to gain. Following that, he will require to increase his mass. Measuring 6-foot-1 and weighing 218 pounds, he is the team’s lightest player in that position. Although this might enhance his coverage skills, he will still have to gain some weight to effectively play linebacker in the NFL.