Analyzing the salary cap implications of Justin Gilbert's contract to the Pittsburgh Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers surprised fans around the globe Saturday when they traded a 2018 6th round draft pick to the Cleveland Browns for former first round draft pick Justin Gilbert. While fans of the black and gold rejoiced at the fact they gave up so little for such a talented player, some wondered what the salary cap implications would be by adding Gilbert to the team.

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The Steelers take on $786,682 in cash and cap charges in 2016 for Gilbert, along with $2,170,023 in 2017. Not a lot, but all guaranteed.

— Ian Whetstone (@IanWhetstone) September 3, 2016

With Gilbert still on his rookie contract his salary cap hit won't be very significant for the next two years. Nonetheless, as a first round draft pick he is making more than most drafted players.

While the financial aspect of the acquisition might be in the back of some fans' minds, it should be the least of the Steelers organization's worries. With rumors of pure laziness and lack of effort, Gilbert would be wise to prove himself for his new employers...or else he could find himself out of work.