5 most impressive players at conclusion of Steelers training camp in 2021

4. CB Mark Gilbert

This is a player I have had my eyes on since he was signed by the team as an undrafted free agent following the 2021 NFL Draft. Mark Gilbert was a five-year player at Duke, but this was largely due to his injuries and being forced to redshirt during the 2019 season. After earning a whopping 6 interceptions in 13 games as a sophomore, Gilbert played in just 4 contests over the next 3 years.

Fortunately, all the potential was there, and on the path, he was trending, Gilbert could have wound up being a day-two draft pick had he stayed healthy in college. As an undrafted free agent, Gilbert did all that could have been expected of him.

The 6’0 1/8”, 186-pound cornerback displayed sticky coverage during training camp practices and frequently got his hands in the passing lane – turning a few opportunities into interceptions. Gilbert carried this play over to the preseason, where he impressed against Dallas in the Hall of Fame Game.

Gilbert appears to be less likely to make the roster than Justin Layne or Arthur Maulet at this point, and he needs to hope that the team decides to keep a seventh CB in 2021. He played very well and has the athletic traits to stick, but that’s up to the Steelers to decide.