Browns’ Justin Gilbert Says He ‘Messed Up’ During Rookie Season, Vows To Be ‘Great’

Sep 14, 2014; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns cornerback Justin Gilbert (21) against the New Orleans Saints at FirstEnergy Stadium. The Browns defeated the Saints 26-24. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 14, 2014; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns cornerback Justin Gilbert (21) against the New Orleans Saints at FirstEnergy Stadium. The Browns defeated the Saints 26-24. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

Cleveland Browns cornerback Justin Gilbert took responsibility for his many struggles during his rookie year and vowed that he will be “great.” 

It has been a rookie season to forget for Cleveland Browns cornerback Justin Gilbert.

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Not only did he struggle mightily on the football field, but also teammates Karlos Dansby and Donte Whitner recently called Gilbert out for his attitude and professionalism, criticisms Browns coach Mike Pettine said he agreed with.

Gilbert spoke about his disastrous season Friday, admitting that he “messed up” and vowing that he will ultimately be a “great” NFL player, according to Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram.

"“I can assure everyone here that I will work a lot harder, in the offseason and during the season,” Gilbert said. “That’s one promise I can make.”Does he want to be great?“I will be great,” he said.(…)Earlier in the week, coach Mike Pettine questioned Gilbert’s preparation and supported the locker room leaders talking to reporters about his struggles.“And he had every right to,” Gilbert said. “I’m not mad at anyone about it, I brought it upon myself and I can take that and roll with it. I messed up, but I can promise my teammates I’m going to make it right.”"

Good on Gilbert for taking responsibility for his actions. Now, it’s up to him to make good on his vows to “make it right.”

Gilbert has posted just one interception and eight pass deflections, along with 29 tackles, this season.

The Browns selected Gilbert with the No. 8 overall pick of the 2014 NFL Draft.

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