2024 Lions Rookie Report: DaRon Gilbert’s Versatility Could Earn Him a Spot in Detroit

Detroit Lions linebacker DaRon Gilbert has faced significant adversity on his path to the NFL, but his journey is far from over. The Detroit native entered training camp as an undrafted rookie, battling in a crowded linebacker room. To make things even more challenging, Gilbert only had one year of experience at the linebacker position.

Before joining the NFL, Gilbert made his mark at Brother Rice High School in Detroit. He initially played as a safety at Lafayette College, a small FCS school in Pennsylvania, where he spent four solid seasons. Later, he transferred to Northern Illinois and made the transition from safety to linebacker. During his senior year, Gilbert started all 13 games and contributed significantly on special teams.

After going undrafted, Gilbert signed with the Detroit Lions under a modest contract, with only $2,500 in guaranteed money. His training camp was relatively quiet, but he made his presence felt during the preseason. Against the New York Giants, he played more snaps than any other linebacker on the roster. Although his collegiate background was as a defensive back, Gilbert looked comfortable as a box defender, showing impressive ball skills in coverage and earning a pass breakup.

Gilbert’s real strength lies in his ability to read opposing offenses and make plays against the run. He displayed quick decision-making during the Giants game, minimizing rookie mistakes and showcasing his experience at safety when covering tight ends and running backs on short-yardage passing plays. He finished with four tackles and the pass breakup.

However, Gilbert’s progress was halted after suffering an injury during a practice following the preseason game. On August 13, he was waived with an injury settlement. While the details of the injury settlement are unclear, it meant Gilbert had a chance to either join another team or return to Detroit for the 2024 season.

On December 26, Gilbert was re-signed to the Lions’ practice squad, though he wasn’t elevated for any of the team’s remaining games. After the Lions’ postseason run ended, Gilbert was brought back on a reserve/futures deal, signaling the team’s belief in his potential.

Looking ahead to the 2025 season, Gilbert faces stiff competition from fellow Michigan natives Anthony Pittman and Trevor Nowaske, both free agents likely to return. All three are reserve linebackers with potential to contribute as special teamers, but Gilbert’s versatility may help him stand out. While Pittman and Nowaske can serve as inside linebackers or pass rushers, Gilbert’s experience as a safety gives him the edge in coverage, particularly in short-yardage situations. Although he’ll need to refine his man-to-man skills, Gilbert is a strong zone defender.

For Gilbert to earn a spot on the 53-man roster next season, there are several key factors. First, staying healthy is crucial. His injury last season prevented him from playing in two preseason games and kept him off an NFL roster for more than four months. This is vital experience that Gilbert hasn’t had the chance to gain. Secondly, he’ll need to add some bulk. At 6-foot-1 and 218 pounds, Gilbert is the lightest linebacker on the roster. While his size aids his coverage skills, putting on some weight will be necessary for him to succeed at the NFL level.

As he works to make the 2025 roster, Gilbert’s journey will be one to watch closely.