Alohi Gilman is entering the final year of his rookie deal, where he will be auditioning for another contract, whether for the Chargers or another team.
Gilman has an excellent opportunity to show his worth with extensive playing time, as he is set to be the starting safety alongside Derwin James.
“He’s a guy that’s consistent,” James said about Gilman. “Everyone here counts on him. Everyone knows that he’s going to be where he needs to be. He’s getting better. He’s making calls. He’s confident. It’s exciting being out there. It’s been a lot of fun, a lot of energy out there, honestly.”
Gilman is coming off his best year as a pro. He started for Nasir Adderley down the stretch of the season and made the most of his time on the field, finishing with career highs in tackles (58), passes defended (three) and fumble recoveries (two) while notching an interception.
Gilman has built off his previous campaign, as he was a standout during OTAs and minicamp.
Los Angeles hopes that 2022 third-round pick JT Woods can develop into the deep safety opposite James. The team could also sign someone between now and the start of training camp.
But for now, it’s Gilman’s job to lose.
With his great instincts, cover skills and open-field tackling ability, Gilman should be a vital piece in the back end of the Bolts’ defense this upcoming season.
Alohi Gilman with a big PBU to start the game for the Chargers against a slightly different presentation of a core concept pic.twitter.com/eplopRqqjV
— Syed Schemes (@SyedSchemes) December 12, 2022