Zyon Gilbert

Gilbert was born on February 4, 1999, in Montgomery, Alabama. He attended Jefferson Davis High School there and was a two-way player in football, earning twice all-state honors. He was named the school's best defensive back, best two-way player, and was given the "speed award" at a season-ending banquet.[1] Gilbert was a three-star recruit and committed to Florida Atlantic.[2]

Gilbert became the starter as a true freshman in 2017[3] and recorded 52 total tackles in 14 games.[1] He remained a starter in 2018 and recorded 51 tackles in 12 matches.[1] In 2019, Gilbert recorded 48 tackles, 10 passes defended, two interceptions and a forced fumble on his way to being named honorable mention all-conference.[1][4]

As a senior in 2020, Gilbert tallied 46 tackles, one interception and six passes defended, being named honorable mention all-conference for the second consecutive season.[1] After being given an extra year of eligibility due to the COVID-19 pandemic, he opted to return to the team in 2021 for a final season.[5] That year, Gilbert appeared in 12 games and finished with 51 tackles, two interceptions and 12 passes defended, as well as a third honorable mention all-conference selection.[1] He finished his time at Florida Atlantic as the school's all-time leader in games played with 57,[6] and recorded 248 tackles, 31 passes defended and five interceptions.[1]

After going unselected in the 2022 NFL Draft, Gilbert was signed by the New York Giants as an undrafted free agent.[7] He was released at the final roster cuts but was subsequently re-signed to the practice squad.[8][9] Gilbert was elevated to the active roster for their week thirteen game with the Washington Commanders,[10] and started at cornerback in his NFL debut, appearing on 62 snaps and recording seven tackles.[11] He posted his first career sack the following week against the Philadelphia Eagles.[11] He signed a reserve/future contract on January 22, 2023.[12]