Patriots Linked to Potential Reunion with Former Defensive Player of the Year
Could the New England Patriots be on the verge of reuniting with a former Defensive Player of the Year?
While the Patriots addressed their cornerback depth by signing Carlton Davis in free agency to pair with Second-Team All-Pro Christian Gonzalez, they still find themselves lacking in proven talent at the position, aside from Marcus Jones.
New England added just one cornerback in the draft, Memphis standout Kobee Minor, who was selected in the seventh round. However, Minor’s chances of making an immediate impact are slim, and even if he does make the roster, it’s hard to expect much from him in his rookie season. There’s also Alex Austin, who shows promise but remains untested.
The good news is that the Patriots still have some cap space to add another player, and there are several intriguing options left on the free-agent market. One of the most notable names is Stephon Gilmore, who played for the Patriots from 2017 to 2021 and won a Defensive Player of the Year award in 2018.
Mike Rosenstein of NESN believes Gilmore could be worth considering, even if New England can’t offer him a starting role. “That said, everything can change when training camp begins later this month,” Rosenstein wrote. “A poor performance here, an injury there, and it’s very possible a path back to the Patriots makes sense. Heck, if Gilmore is willing to embrace a limited role and mentor the team’s young cornerbacks, why not go home?”
Gilmore spent the 2024 season with the Minnesota Vikings, playing in 15 games, recording 56 tackles, an interception, and nine passes defended. While he may not be the same player who earned five Pro Bowl selections in his prime, he remained productive.
The Patriots could certainly use another veteran in their secondary, and a reunion with Gilmore might be their best option — provided he’s open to the idea.
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