In a shocking move early Wednesday morning, Adam Schefter revealed the New England Patriots are suddenly releasing a longtime respected member of their defense. Four-time Pro Bowl cornerback Stephon Gilmore is being let go and will immediately be free to sign with another team.
Gilmore, who hadn’t been playing with the Patriots as he recovers from a torn quad injury, was eligible to come off the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list beginning in Week 6. This move comes after the Patriots reportedly are set to bring in a familiar face in linebacker Jamie Collins.
Prior to being released, Gilmore, 31, was set to become a free agent at the end of the 2021 season. Unable to agree to a longterm extension, Gilmore’s name has long been attached to trade rumors.
It’s a shock the Patriots weren’t able to get some sort of value for the two-time first-team All-Pro defender.
Though he may not be able to immediately help a team, you can be sure there will be several suitors lining up for the services of the 2019 NFL Defensive Player of the Year.