Makhi Gilbert is a 6'2", 265-pound defensive lineman from Phenix City, Alabama, who attended Central High School before spending three seasons at Samford. At Samford, he appeared in 26 career games and recorded 32 tackles, five tackles for loss, and two sacks. Gilbert transferred to Eastern Michigan for the 2025 season, playing in five games with four starts. He finished with 16 tackles, including five solo, 1.5 tackles for loss, and two quarterback hurries. In 2026, he was named one of the team's five captains and selected to the Phil Steele MAC Third Team at defensive tackle.

Samfordthrough 2024

Eastern Michigan2025 — present