As the Hamilton Tiger-Cats prepare for the 2026 CFL Draft, they are continuing to add as much talent as possible for training camp. Many of the players that the Tiger-Cats sign this time in the offseason tend to be evaluated quickly and cut relatively early in training camp. However, there are always exceptions to that trend, which is why CFL teams, including the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, add as many prospects as they can to their training camp rosters.

While there are no guarantees that any player signed by Hamilton will grow into a role that allows them to be an impact player, every player signed has the potential to be the next big thing on the Tiger-Cats roster. That possibility highlights the potential unlocked when the Hamilton Tiger-Cats sign a player looking to prove himself in the CFL. With that in mind, the Tiger-Cats have signed American defensive back Zyon Gilbert, according to the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and the CFL Transactions list.

American defensive back Zyon Gilbert is a 6’0″, 193-pound defensive back who has the versatility to play outside cornerback, slot corner, free safety, or strong safety. Gilbert played college football at Florida Atlantic University, where he appeared in 60 games at multiple positions. During those 60 games, Gilbert recorded 158 solo tackles, 89 assists, 31 pass deflections, and 1.0 quarterback sack. In addition, Gilbert played in 3 games for the New York Giants during the 2022 and 2023 NFL seasons, and he also spent time with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2024.

Gilbert brings elite speed and athleticism to the Hamilton roster, which makes him excellent when it comes to breaking on the ball. The versatility of Gilbert increases the opportunities that he has to make the Tiger-Cats 2026 roster, but he will likely be given an opportunity to compete for playing time at the Sam linebacker position for Hamilton. On the other hand, those critical of Gilbert could highlight his inconsistency in tackling in space, and at times, he gets overaggressive in pass coverage, setting him up for penalties and leaving him vulnerable to double moves.

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