New England Patriots: 6 biggest offseason rumors and questions in 2021

3. The Stephon Gilmore rumors

With the emergence of J.C. Jackson, it is quite possible the New England Patriots will be listening to offers for Stephon Gilmore.

The 2019 NFL Defensive Player of the Year was rumored in trades prior to the NFL trade deadline so it would not be shocking if Bill Belichick pulled the trigger this offseason given Gilmore’s contract commands moving forward.

In his time with the Patriots, Gilmore has been the model teammate.  He has not only adapted to Belichick’s defense, but has become the face of the defense.  But, as a player over the age of 30, the Patriots aren’t likely to give Gilmore another big contract, especially with Jackson on the rise.

Will the New England Patriots trade Stephon Gilmore?

With not many assets to offer in a trade, Gilmore could be dangled to either move up on the 2021 NFL Draft or obtain more draft picks.  Perhaps another first round pick, which they were rumored to be looking for prior to the trade deadline.

While trading Gilmore would seem like another blow to the team, it may be necessary to help the team build in other key positions.

Of course, all of this depends on how Gilmore bounces back from a season-ending quadriceps tear he suffered towards the end of the season.