College career

At Clemson, Gilchrist played with four of his defensive teammates who were selected in the 2011 NFL Draft. According to the Tigers’ coaches though, it was Marcus’ football IQ that made him stand out, along with an impressive showing at the NFL combine where he posted a 38-inch vertical leap and put up 26 bench-press repetitions at 225 pounds, second-most among all defensive backs.

Professional career

San Diego Chargers

2011 Season

Gilchrist was taken with the 50th overall pick in the second round of the 2011 NFL Draft by the San Diego Chargers. As a rookie, Gilchrist won the team’s nickel job right out of training camp and he earned his first start just four games into the season. Not surprisingly, that day’s opponent, the Miami Dolphins, went right after the rookie corner, but Gilchrist intercepted the first pass thrown in his direction and his defense helped the Chargers to a victory.

2012 Season

In 2012, Gilchrist played in all 16 games last season and he made four starts. His 76 tackles were third-most among the secondary and fifth-most on the team. He also collected his first sack and broke up five passes.

Gilchrist on May 14, 2013 was moved to the strong safety position by Chargers Staff for the 2013 season.

2013 Season

Gilchrist started all 16 games, finishing the year with 77 tackles, 2 interceptions, 1 sack,1 Forced Fumble, and 5 passes defended. In week 15, against the Denver Broncos Gilchrist was moved back to the nickel back position due to injuries in the Chargers secondary.

2014 Season

Gilchrist again started all 16 games recording 76 tackles, 1 sack, 5 pass defections, 1 interception, and 2 force fumbles. His one interception was the game sealing interception at the goal line against the St. Louis Rams.

New York Jets

After finishing his four year rookie contract with the San Diego Chargers Gilchrist signed with the New York Jets on March 12, 2015.

Personal life

Gilchrist had toughness and discipline instilled at home at an early age from his father, Ronny, a retired United States Marine. Ronny played sports and boxed in the service. He had Marcus doing push-ups and sit-ups at an early age, 200 a day when he started playing youth sports, and more as he got older. Marcus’ mother, LaJeune, was also the daughter of a coach.

[ Source: Wikipedia ]