Cleveland Browns CB Justin Gilbert unsure he’ll be signed by training camp
By Josh Sanchez
Former Oklahoma State cornerback Justin Gilbert was a top ten pick of the Cleveland Browns in the 2014 NFL Draft. The Browns selected Gilbert before controversial quarterback Johnny Manziel, but they may be without their top pick when training camp starts.
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According to Tony Grossi of ESPN Cleveland, the hold up in Gilbert’s contract is offset language.
He is one of just two first-round picks that has yet to sign his deal. Tennessee Titans offensive tackle Taylor Lewan, who was selected No. 11 overall, is the only other first-rounder that has yet to sign his deal.
When Gilbert was asked whether or not he would have his deal signed by the start of training camp, he had an answer that is not what the Browns fans want to hear.
“I have no idea,” Gilbert told FOX Sports Ohio. “They’re still working on it.”
The slot that Gilbert is currently slated in should pay him approximately S12.8 million, with a $7.7 million signing bonus.
If he is able to get a deal similar to Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans, who was selected one pick before him and able to get part of the offset language sorted out, then we could see Gilbert on the field sooner rather than later.
If not, the Browns could enter training camp without their top pick.
The craziest part in all of this is that Gilbert isn’t even the one out getting drunk on swans, yet he is causing the most problems for the team directly.