Here are some potential landing spots for best-remaining cornerback and former Dallas Cowboy, Stephon Gilmore. The former Defensive Player of the Year is still on the market as he’s still open to a reunion with the Patriots. Gilmore’s availability remains an interesting topic for many teams that still need a solid defensive back. Earlier this offseason, there were rumors that he could imminently sign with the Panthers but there was no deal in place.
According to a report, the veteran plans to be patient and wait for the “right opportunity” even though he’s open to all options, including a return to Dallas. Gilmore enjoyed substantial success throughout his career where he started his career in Buffalo. There’s no question that he was one of the premiere cornerbacks, especially in his tenure with the Patriots where he earned three Pro Bowl nods, including winning a Super Bowl. Gilmore isn’t canceling out the idea of ending his career with the Patriots despite them training him for the Panthers in 2021.
Gilmore was becoming a journeyman when he suffered from injuries that slowed down his career. However, he remains one of the most high-profile defensive backs after playing all regular season games with the Cowboys last season. Over the past two years, the South Carolina product has been accumulating four interceptions. 21 passes defended and logging over 1,000 snaps each year. Gilmore proves that he could still be a reliable caliber starter for any team that needs defense reinforcement.
As of now, there are no serious talks between Gilmore and any teams that are looking for a cornerback. Rosters with playoff aspirations should probably consider a veteran like him to improve the secondary. Training camp is coming and there may be teams out there wanting his services.
Top Potential Landing Spots for Best Remaining Cornerback Stephon Gilmore
Other Potential Destinations
Kansas City Chiefs
Gilmore may not be looking to rebuild with any roster if it means they won’t be contending for a Super Bowl. He seems like the right fit to be a legit replacement since the departure of L’Jarius Sneed. The Chiefs need the depth after losing Sneed who’s been a star lockdown defender for the past few seasons. The opposite spot of Trent McDuffie is set to be manned by third-year players like Nazeeh Johnson and Jaylen Watson.
However, Gilmore’s experience could bring explosion back to the secondary that doesn’t have sneed anymore. The Chiefs are building a solid defensive front with Chris Jones coming back so this means they need a legit star in the secondary so that could be Gilmore.
Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens still have one of the best defenses next to the Chiefs in the league. Much of their roster is going to be different next year since Rock Ya-Sin and Ronald Darby are heading to other teams. They need a reliable veteran to help the opposite of Marlon Humphrey. Baltimore is looking to rebuild their secondary which is why they used the first-round pick on cornerback Nate Wiggins.
However, Gilmore could provide some mentorship and experience to help greet Wiggins. Teaming up with Lamar Jackson on the same roster would open up the opportunity for a run at a Super Bowl. The two-time MVP is bound to win one but some help on defense would be beneficial to make this team stellar.
Detroit Lions
The Lions are probably the best NFC team to likely head to a Super Bowl this upcoming season. The NFC Championship runner-ups have a promising roster after extending Jared Goff and Amon-Ra St. Brown this offseason. However, Gilmore joining a rusty secondary would allow him to mentor incoming rookies, Ennis Rakestraw Jr. and Terrion Arnold. This is why the Lions made the move to trade for Carlton Davis, having previous Super Bowl experience to keep this secondary moving.
Gilmore and Davis on both opposite ends would shape up the youthful corners coming in.
