These days, all Ulysees Gilbert III is focused on is earning a roster spot. Entering his third year in the NFL, Gilbert has appeared in only 11 games and produced 10 tackles for the Pittsburgh Steelers, as a series of back injuries have sent him to injured reserve each of his first two seasons since the franchise drafted him in the sixth round out of Akron.
But Thursday’s Hall of Fame game comes with a bonus for Gilbert: A return to his collegiate home. The Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton is just a 22-minute drive down Interstate 77 from the University of Akron, putting Gilbert back in the same area where he spent four years and 50 games starring for the Zips.