The New England Patriots were all set to release star cornerback Stephon Gilmore on Wednesday before ultimately trading him to the Carolina Panthers. Shortly before that trade went down, Patriots head coach Bill Belichick released this statement on Gilmore:
Statement from Coach Bill Belichick on Stephon Gilmore. pic.twitter.com/X7CR54NCwf
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) October 6, 2021
*Watch the NFL LIVE with fuboTV (click for free trial)*
Gilmore played four seasons for the Patriots before this season. He hasn't suited up yet in 2021 due to quad surgery he underwent in 2020. In those four seasons, the star cornerback went to three Pro Bowls and made First-Team All-Pro twice. He also won Defensive Player of the Year in 2019 and played a key role in the Super Bow LIII victory over the Los Angeles Rams.
So, while things didn't end on a high note in New England, it was a successful partnership while they were together. Gilmore had been looking for a new contract for a while, with trade rumors coming along with that, but nothing came to fruition until Wednesday right before the Patriots were set to release him. New England was right up against the salary cap, so clearing the cornerback's salary will give them more flexibility.
Gilmore is eligible to come off the physically unable to perform list after Week 6. It sounds like he should be good to go then.
Follow Us
Subscribe