Cleveland Browns defensive coordinator Jim O'Neil has revealed that he is "optimistic" that cornerback Justin Gilbert can shine in his second year in the NFL.
The Browns selected Gilbert with the eighth overall pick of the 2014 Draft, but the 23-year-old struggled to make an impact in his rookie season as he was called out by his teammates for his immaturity.
However, O'Neil feels that the expectations of Gilbert may have been too much, and believes that the cornerback will grow into his role in his second year in the league.
"I think that expectations for corners in this league for first year are always a lot higher than they should be," O'Neil told the club's official website. "I can't remember a rookie corner that's had a successful season in his first year.
"I know nobody wants to hear this, but it takes time, it takes time to learn how to play corner in the NFL. Quarterbacks are too good, receivers are too good. I'm very optimistic for Justin in year two."
Gilbert recorded 29 tackles and one interception in the 2014 season.
Simon Sinclair
