Before first game with Apollos, Gilbert signs with NFL’s Panthers
Garrett Gilbert has not even played a game for the Orlando Apollos yet, and he’s already got a new gig.
The Carolina Panthers signed Gilbert, 27, this week after their backup quarterback, Tyler Heinicke, injured his elbow during a 24-10 loss to the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday. With Cam Newton held out because of shoulder issues, the Panthers (6-9) are expected to start third-string QB Kyle Allen in their season finale Sunday against the New Orleans Saints at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome.
Gilbert entered the NFL as a sixth-round draft pick by the St. Louis Rams in 2014. He also has spent time with the New England Patriots, Detroit Lions, Oakland Raiders and Panthers without playing in a regular-season game.
He has bounced into and out of the Panthers’ organization since he originally was signed on March 24, 2017, according to Pro-Football-Reference.com.
Gilbert began his collegiate career at Texas before transferring to SMU as a junior. Gilbert replaced injured Longhorns starter Colt McCoy in the 2010 BCS National Championship Game against Alabama in Pasadena, Calif., completing 15 of 40 passes for 186 yards, two touchdowns and four interceptions.
The Longhorns lost 37-21. The Apollos are part of the upstart Alliance of American Football. They chose Gilbert with their top pick in the league’s “Protect or Pick” Quarterback Draft last month.
Apollos spokesman Al Lunsford said the franchise retains Gilbert’s rights once he returns to the AAF.
The Apollos will begin play against the Atlanta Legends at 8 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 9, at UCF’s Spectrum Stadium.