Gilbert was signed by the Seattle Seahawks as an undrafted free agent in 1985, beginning his career as the third-string quarterback behind Dave Krieg and Jim Zorn.[3] Gilbert became the backup to Krieg when Zorn was released on September 2, 1985.[4] He also became the holder for placekicks, as Zorn's release opened that job up as well.[5] Gilbert threw a 37-yard touchdown pass to Daryl Turner in the final seconds of a game against the Los Angeles Rams on September 23.[6] Against the Kansas City Chiefs on September 29, Gilbert took over at quarterback for Krieg, who threw four interceptions. Gilbert threw an additional interception to end the game.[7] Gilbert played in nine games in 1985, going 19-for-40 for 218 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions.[8]
Gilbert played for the Buffalo Bills from 1989 to 1993, where he was the third-string quarterback, behind Jim Kelly and Frank Reich. In his seasons with Buffalo, Gilbert appeared in only two games and attempted fifteen passes.[9]
San Diego Chargers
Gilbert played for the San Diego Chargers from 1994 to 1995 where he backed up Stan Humphries. In San Diego, Gilbert saw increased playing time, appearing in 31 games over the course of the two seasons and starting one game each season. In these two seasons, Gilbert attempted 128 passes.[9] He played briefly at the end of the Chargers' loss in Super Bowl XXIX.
Gilbert's career ended on Sunday, December 31, 1995, during San Diego's 35–20 loss to the Indianapolis Colts in the wild card round of the playoffs. Gilbert did not play in his final game on an NFL roster.[10]
Gilbert is the only player in NFL history to be a member of five straight Super Bowl teams;[11] four with the Bills (XXV–XXVIII) and one with the Chargers (XXIX). All five teams lost.
Personal life
On June 1, 1988, Gilbert was found not guilty of second-degree rape and indecent liberties. The accusations were made by a 21-year-old female he met at a bar in Seattle's Ballard neighborhood.[12] Two days after his acquittal, he pled guilty to second-degree attempted sexual assault against a second woman and was subsequently sentenced to 240 hours of community service.[13][14][15]