Ex-Patriot Confused Why He's Still on the Market
By Joe Summers
Former Patriots star CB Stephon Gilmore is somehow still a free agent with training camp starting, though he's confident he'll find a new team soon.
Gilmore emerged as the NFL's best cornerback during his four-year tenure in New England, winning the AP Defensive Player of the Year award for his spectacular 2019 season. He was with the Cowboys last year and while he's lost a step, Gilmore can still positively impact a defense and serve as a veteran leader.
It's unclear if a reunion with the Patriots is on the table, but the two-time All-Pro expects to be on a roster before the season starts.
Former Patriots CB Stephon Gilmore Confident He'll Sign Somewhere Soon
Free agent CB Stephon Gilmore with the latest on his status to me on the phone:
— JosinaAnderson (@JosinaAnderson) July 16, 2024
"There are still some good corners and safeties out there like Justin Simmons and myself that are still not signed. Honestly, I’m still being patient and staying ready until teams see what they have… pic.twitter.com/JeVCrlLICv
NFL insider Josina Anderson reported that Gilmore told her he's "still being patient and staying ready until teams see what they have in training camp."
Gilmore was adamant that he's still one of the 64 best cornerbacks in the NFL and deserving of a starting spot. "If teams want to win, I think they should sign the best players," he continued. "I know I’m still a starter in this league. I started games last year, but the season doesn’t start until September, we got a while."
He's correct that there's still plenty of time for him to sign. Training camps begin across the league this week and some organizations will quickly realize they need a boost in the secondary, whether due to injury or poor play. Gilmore's patience should pay off, giving him the chance to evaluate each individual situation and make the right personal decision.
After leaving the Patriots, Gilmore played one year each with the Colts, Panthers, and Cowboys. His 12-year career spans five teams, so he's got experience in a variety of schemes too. Opposing quarterbacks had only an 82.7 passer rating when targeting the five-time Pro Bowler last year, proving Gilmore still has some juice left in the tank.
Whether it's with a contending team or a young, rebuilding one like New England, it shouldn't be much longer before Gilmore's back at practice somewhere.
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